In Iraq, 837 people have suffered from breathing difficulties over a two-day period following a severe sand and dust storm, according to official figures.
The Iraqi Ministry of Health says several provinces across the country have been affected.
Health authorities in Baghdad and other regions remain on high alert to ensure medical care and treatment for the population.
Images on social media showed several places, including the capital, shrouded in an orange haze.
Sandstorms are not uncommon in Iraq, resulting from strong north-westerly winds that blow across the floodplains of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers in the desert region, particularly in the hotter months of the year.
At the same time, the country is increasingly struggling with drought. This is due not only to climate change but also to misguided water policies. The dust particles significantly worsen air quality.