The weather department warned that "the sandstorm is showing no signs of abating." The local administration has appealed to citizens to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel.

The Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh was hit by a massive sandstorm that blanketed the city's iconic skyline in thick, swirling clouds of sand. The natural disaster brought life in the city to a standstill. Streets were deserted, visibility dropped to zero, and residents were forced to remain confined to their homes.

Sand storm wreaks havoc in Riyadh

The storm gripped Riyadh, causing the city's glittering buildings to disappear into a thick fog of sand. The weather department warned that "the sandstorm is showing no signs of abating." Local authorities have urged citizens to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel. The wind-blown sand has also affected vehicles and infrastructure.

#BREAKING

Blinding wave of dust swallows Saudi Arabia's capital

A powerful sandstorm engulfs Riyadh, shrouding its iconic skyline in thick, swirling clouds. Life grinds to a halt

Visibility plunges. Roads empty. Residents locked indoors

The storm sweeps across Jazan, Asir, Al… pic.twitter.com/TbAL24K9u2

— Nabila Jamal (@nabilajamal_) May 5, 2025

People's breath stopped after seeing the storm.

This terrible storm was not limited to Riyadh. It also hit areas like Jazan, Asir, Al Baha, Makkah and Al Qasim. Normal life was badly affected in these areas too. Traffic stopped on the roads, and many flights were cancelled. The storm left a trail of disruption wherever it stepped.

People confined to their homes

The sandstorm confined residents to their homes, keeping schools, offices and markets closed. The administration has initiated emergency measures, including cleaning roads and putting health services on alert. Weather experts warned that "residents have to remain vigilant for the next few days."

PC:Indiatoday