Another big sandstorm brings Iraq to standstill
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2,000 people in hospitals
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Orange glow over cities
A thick cloud of dust enveloped the capital Baghdad in an orange glow. It also blanketed many other cities including the Shiite shrine city of Najaf to the south, and Sulaimaniyah, in the northern Kurdish autonomous region, AFP reported.
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Sand covers cars and buildings
Yellow and orange sand covered building roofs, cars and even crept into buildings. In seven of Iraq's 18 provinces, including Baghdad, government offices were ordered shut.
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Breathing difficulties
Health facilities though remained open to assist those admitted with breathing difficulties. Those with respiratory or heart ailments suffered more difficulties.
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Eighth dust storm
It is the eighth dust storm since mid-April to hit Iraq. The last one earlier this month led to the death of one person while 5,000 others had to be hospitalised for respiratory problems.
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Vulnerable to desertification
Iraq is classified as one of the world's five countries most vulnerable to climate change and desertification. It has been battered by soil degradation, intense droughts and low rainfall linked to climate change.