1Caroline

I have been trying to determine how likely it is to encounter a sand storm in the Sahara. Some things I've read say they are fairly often but I'm not sure how reliable the source was. This isn't a frivolous question, but one of importance for me as I have a pulmonary condition and I'm trying to see if I need to prepare for a sand storm and if a particular type mask is recommended. Has anyone actually been in a sand storm and if so how long did it last and was it really intense? At one place I read that they could last from a few minutes to several days and no particular time of year was more likely than any other. Any info would be appreciated.

UNDERMOROCCANSUN

A sand storm may ruin ones desert experience, as they re pretty unpleasant. Get a turban to cover just in case, glasses are advisable...Be hopefull your stay there does not parallel with one.
Best

sandi

What you've read is pretty much what you might experience, anytime of year, for who knows how long these might last. Can happen during daytime or even overnight. Pretty much unpredictable.

Can't advise specifics for coverup/protection, but if you have a good 'camping' outfitter = Camping World, REI = where you live, might be able to assist. Am sure lots of people head out to the deserts anywhere around the world and need to protect from such storms.

thursdaysd

Surely in this situation you should prepare for the worst, and be happy if it doesn't occur. No-one here can possibly assure you that the worst will not happen, and you shouldn't believe them if they try.

1Caroline

Thanks everyone. I appreciate your input. I kept thinking about it but didn't know if it was a real problem or not. I will go to one of the sporting goods stores and start looking for something. Thanks, again.

Worldnomad

I have lived in the Saudi Arbian desert for 14 years and experienced several sandstorms. The majority here occur in the late winter - early spring. I am sure you can check on sandstorm season in the Sahara and avoid that time for travel. Most of us wear disposable surgical masks to keep the sand out of our mouths and noses, these are lightweight, not bulky, inexpensive, and reasonably comfortable to wear. We also wear glasses, either regular prescription glasses or sunglasses, clear safety glasses would also work. Sand in the eye is very unpleasant and can lead to bigger problems if you are constantly rubbing. I can add that hospitals in the area report a significant increase in patient visits to the ER for respiratory problems, and that those who do suffer from respiratory problems are usually advised to stay inside during sandstorms. The sandstorms here last from a few hours to a few days. Unfortunately no matter how well you believe your house / car to be sealed the sand will find a way in and everything will be dusty.

tower

Caroline:
Pretty much agree with the sandstorm info as far as prep is concerned. Doesn't take much to seek out the best mask and glasses. Just to give some feel for Maroc, I will share my pics with you, including the desert shots at Erg Chebbi, the gigantic 30-mile long dune. (see post below) Stu

tower

http://picasaweb.google.com/stuarttower/Morocco#

https://picasaweb.google.com/stuartt...KvrpeoxMr2uwE#

https://picasaweb.google.com/stuarttower/Maroc3#

1Caroline:
Three parts of a month long auto trip, including (1)Fes and the Atlas, (2) the desert, the gorges, Ouarzazate, the Draa Valley, remote Fint, Ait Benhadou, (3)Marrakech and Essaouira.

Suggestion: Do not ignore Maroc for the sandstorm
fear. It's a much too exotic, exciting and fascinating country to omit because of the threat of sandstorms. Just follow some of the sensible suggestions listed above because of your pulmonary problems.

Case in point: People still flock to California where I live, despite the history of earthquakes. If you find anyplace in the world exempt from natural disasters, please let us know.
The USA has gone through one of the worst years I can recall, with one disaster after another...winter storms, floods, hurricanes, fires everywhere, tornadoes..etc.
stu