RIYADH — Saudi Arabia experienced its lowest level of dust and sandstorm activity in more than 25 years during June 2026, with dust events dropping 99% below historical averages, according to the National Center for Meteorology (NCM).

The NCM said the Kingdom recorded an almost complete absence of dust and sandstorms throughout June, making it the lowest level observed since systematic monitoring began more than two decades ago.

NCM Chief Executive Officer Dr. Ayman Ghulam said the findings were based on the latest report issued by the Regional Center for Sand and Dust Storms.

According to the report, the Northern Borders region recorded a 100% decline in dust storm activity. Central regions, including Riyadh, Qassim, and Al Kharj, saw a 99% reduction, while the Eastern Province, including Al Ahsa, Dammam, and Dhahran, also reported a 99% decrease.

The center attributed the significant decline to several environmental and climatic factors, including the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom’s cloud seeding program, improved vegetation cover, better grazing management, and weaker weather systems that normally generate dust storms during this time of year.

The Regional Center for Sand and Dust Storms continues to monitor atmospheric conditions using advanced technologies such as satellite observations, AERONET aerosol monitoring, LiDAR systems, numerical forecasting models, and specialized dust sampling equipment.

According to the center, these technologies enhance early warning capabilities, improve forecasting accuracy, support government agencies, and help minimize the effects of dust storms on public health, the environment, and economic activities