The visual characteristics of the storm in the image match those of a haboob, a type of intense dust storm that typically forms when thunderstorm downdrafts or strong winds push sand and dust upward, creating a dense, fast-moving wall.

These storms often occur during the spring and early summer, when dry conditions and seasonal wind patterns such as the shamal — strong northwesterly winds — create favorable conditions for dust uplift and transport.

Meteorological data from May 2025 aligns with conditions conducive to dust storm formation, with temperatures in Riyadh reaching around 39°C and precipitation remaining low.

These environmental factors, coupled with widespread aridity, increase the likelihood of large-scale sandstorms during this time of year.

Storm parallels previous regional events

While no official meteorological bulletin has yet confirmed the May 5 event in detail, previous storms in the region suggest a consistent pattern.

In April 2025, a significant dust storm that affected Iraq was traced back to eastern Saudi Arabia, illustrating the regional mobility of such events.

The current storm appears to have followed a similar pattern, advancing across urban zones and dramatically reducing visibility, although it remains unclear which city was impacted in the franceinfo image.

Saudi authorities have made recent efforts to reduce the frequency and severity of dust storms through reforestation and environmental reforms tied to the country’s Vision 2030 initiative.

In May 2024, Saudi Arabia recorded its lowest rate of dust and sand storms in 20 years, with an 80% decrease compared to previous years. Despite these efforts, the May 2025 event highlights that such storms still pose a recurring environmental challenge.

Visibility and health concerns in dense dust clouds

Dust storms of this scale are not only visually dramatic but can also pose immediate threats to health and infrastructure.

Similar events in the past have led to air traffic disruptions, transportation shutdowns, and increased respiratory illnesses due to fine particulate matter in the air.

According to the World Health Organization, exposure to airborne dust can significantly impact individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions, particularly in densely populated areas.

Given that approximately 95% of Saudi Arabia’s land is covered by desert, such storms remain a persistent feature of the country’s climate.

The May 5 image, though not yet tied to a confirmed location or event report, reflects the continuing vulnerability of desert cities to large-scale dust events, particularly in transitional seasons.