Sand storm causes health risk

An immense sandstorm continued to cause havoc throughout much of China on 22 March 2010 as the government issued a health warning over the poor air quality. Chinese authorities have warned residents to remain indoors if possible and close all windows, while those who must go outdoors have been advised to cover their mouths to avoid breathing in fine sand and dust. Flight delays have been reported at Beijing Capital International Airport (ZBAA/PEK) and other airports in the country because of the drop in visibility. The sandstorm has also caused disruptions in Taiwan, where a thick layer of black soot covered roads and buildings in the western part of the country. The sandstorm is expected to continue to cause hazardous conditions for the next several days. Environmentalists claim that the sand cloud is caused by extensive deforestation and overgrazing, as well as recent drought conditions in the western region of China.