The East is choking: A violent dust storm turns the Oujda-Laayoune road into hell and paralyzes traffic (video)

The eastern region of Morocco witnessed on Thursday a violent dust storm that swept through the road linking the city of Oujda and Ain Bni Mathar (Al Ayoun Charqiya), causing major disruption to traffic and recording a series of traffic accidents. According to local sources, thick clouds of dust covered the road, leading to dangerously low visibility levels and forcing drivers to slow down or stop completely.

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Causes of the Storm and Its Intensity

The storm is attributed to strong dust-laden winds, described as unprecedented in their severity, as wind speeds reached high levels that lifted enormous amounts of dust from the surrounding dry areas. Its impact extended to other areas in the eastern region, such as the road between Oujda and Nador, where serious traffic accidents were recorded due to zero visibility. Reports indicated that the thick dust covered the sky, forcing residents in neighboring areas to stay inside their homes and partially paralyzing traffic along the main road.

Effects on Traffic and Accidents

The storm caused wholesale traffic accidents, as cameras of road users documented scenes of thick dust and collisions resulting from loss of control. The severe decrease in visibility led to multiple car collisions, with minor injuries recorded in some cases, with no serious human casualties reported so far. Social media reported that many drivers posted warning videos calling on others to exercise caution and vigilance, with advice to avoid unnecessary travel in such conditions.

Authorities’ Warnings and Weather Forecasts

Local authorities and the Royal Gendarmerie urged drivers to exercise maximum caution, emphasizing the need to use lights and maintain a safe distance between vehicles. The meteorological authority also announced the continuation of unstable weather conditions in the eastern region, with forecasts of rain and snowfall in other areas of the Kingdom during the same day. Residents are advised to avoid going out except when necessary, especially in mountainous and desert areas where such storms are frequent.

This storm serves as a reminder of the importance of preparing for harsh weather conditions in the eastern regions and confirms the role of early warnings in reducing risks.