Six people were killed and over 80 others were reported missing due to a sandstorm in Mongolia. This was reported on March 15 by the CGTN TV channel with reference to the country’s Emergency Management Department.
It is specified that among the dead there are five shepherds and one child. Also, information was received about 548 missing persons. Already found 467 people, currently rescuers are searching for 81 people.
According to the TV channel, in some areas in western Mongolia, as a result of a sandstorm, there are large-scale power outages.
Earlier in the day, it became known that a sandstorm hit Beijing. At the capital’s airport, as a result of the disaster, 428 flights had to be canceled. In addition, due to the storm, traffic jams have formed on the roads of Beijing, the visibility in the city does not exceed 1000 m.
The authorities have declared a yellow hazard level within the city limits. Residents are not recommended to hold outdoor events, as well as to leave the premises unless absolutely necessary.
The day before, it was reported that a strong sandstorm was recorded in the Gulf countries, in particular in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. As a result, the visibility dropped to several meters. Dust and sand covered buildings and cars, and entered houses through joints in windows.