US faces growing threat from deadly dust storms

Deadly dust storms are increasing globally, posing significant health and economic threats. Scientists are urgently working to understand and mitigate these events. These storms, exacerbated by climate change and drought, carry harmful particulates and diseases, impacting millions. They cause respiratory and cardiovascular issues, and have been linked to outbreaks of meningitis and valley fever. Dust storms are more costly than other major climate disasters, impacting agriculture, transportation, and healthcare. Efforts are underway to re-green affected lands and prevent erosion, but political and land-use challenges remain.