Sandstorms push Tobruk air pollution to record level

Libya’s Environment Ministry under the government of Osama Hamad has announced that Tobruk has recorded the highest air pollution level in the country, as powerful sandstorms continue to affect large parts of eastern and southern Libya.

According to the ministry, air pollution levels in Tobruk reached 9,812 micrograms per cubic metre, surpassing the previous highest reading recorded in Benghazi. The figure is described as unprecedented when measured against international standards.

The ministry said the reading far exceeds the safe limit set by the World Health Organization, which places acceptable pollution levels at no more than 100 micrograms per cubic metre.

Other cities have also been severely affected. Derna, Kufra and the oases region were reported to have registered hazardous levels of air pollution as the sandstorms spread across several areas.

Officials also warned of growing health concerns linked to the deteriorating air quality, particularly among children, who appear to be among the most affected by the current conditions.

The ministry urged residents to follow precautionary measures aimed at reducing health risks, especially as the impact of the sandstorms is expected to continue across eastern and southern cities.

The latest warning comes amid mounting concern over the environmental and public health impact of seasonal sandstorms, which regularly disrupt daily life and place additional pressure on local health services.