Dust storms are significant natural hazards that occur when strong winds lift large amounts of dust particles into the atmosphere and transport them over long distances, even across continents. Dust storms adversely affect the environment, human health, and socio-economic systems. These events can impact the Earth's radiation budget, cloud formation, plant photosynthesis, and soil quality. Dust storms pose significant threats to human health by increasing the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases and by transporting bacteria, viruses, and pollutant microorganisms, which can expose populations in regions far from the dust source to disease. In addition, they can lead to disruptions to the transportation industry and economic activities and damage infrastructure. Therefore, addressing the global challenge of dust storms is essential, particularly as the UN General Assembly has declared 2025–2034 the decade to combat these catastrophic weather events.

The objective of this project is to analyze dust storms and their consequences on a global scale. This research utilizes big data analytics, satellite remote sensing, global datasets, and computational tools to detect and analyze dust storms and their impacts. Moreover, it develops predictive models to quantify the interactions between dust storms, environmental factors, and human activities by using advanced modelling techniques and data-driven tools. The outcomes of this project will contribute to improved early warning systems, the protection of vulnerable communities, climate resilience planning, and informed environmental management.