Scenes described as apocalyptic unfolded across parts of the Mediterranean as a massive dust storm swept northward from the Sahara Desert, engulfing Greece in a thick cloud of desert dust and dramatically altering the sky’s color.
Driven by powerful winds, the storm carried vast quantities of fine sand across the Mediterranean Sea, blocking sunlight and casting an eerie red and orange glow over affected areas.
The Greek island of Crete was completely shrouded in dense haze, significantly reducing visibility and raising concerns about air quality.
Authorities in Israel warned of high levels of air pollution caused by inhalable dust particles transported from North Africa.
Officials advised vulnerable groups, including those with heart and respiratory conditions, the elderly, children and pregnant women, to avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
The broader population was also urged to limit intense physical exertion outdoors until conditions improve.
The dust storm had earlier impacted Libya, where skies turned deep red and visibility dropped sharply.
The National Meteorological Center reported that conditions have since stabilized across much of the country, particularly in central and southern regions, with winds easing and temperatures gradually rising.
Northern Libya is expected to see partial cloud cover, with a chance of scattered rainfall in the coming days and a slight decline in temperatures.
In Egypt, officials have denied reports that the country will be affected by a similar red dust storm.
Manar Ghanem from the Egyptian Meteorological Authority stated that the storm system moved from eastern Libya toward the Mediterranean and into Greece, with no direct impact expected on Egyptian territory.
Meteorologists explain that so-called red storms are not a distinct weather phenomenon but rather intense dust storms originating in desert regions.
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