dust storm iran
© Matthias Schmidt / ReutersSandstorm bearing down on Yazd, Iran April 16, 2018
Incredible footage posted by social media users in the Iranian province of Yazd shows an intense sandstrom engulfing the region like a terrifying, giant dark wave.

The fierce dust storm, known as a haboob, swept across the province in central Iran earlier this week but, despite its force and apocalyptic appearance, it left areas largely unscathed. Among the cities enveloped by the dense sand cloud was the region's capital city Yazd - a historic site recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage list.


Yazd's meteorological agency said the storm recorded a wind speed of 102kph (63mph) in the desert region of Bafq, some 126km from Yazd.

There were no casualties or damage as a result of the storm, according to local officials speaking to Iran Front Page. The storm obstructed visibility in the area, however, quickly transforming day into night.