A thick cloud of orange dust has turned the skies over Iraq orange, as a major dust storm hit large parts of the country.

Flights have been grounded at airports in Baghdad and Najaf airports due to poor visibility.

The conditions are expected to continue into Monday, forecasters said.

Dust storms have become increasingly common in the Middle East, with experts blaming a combination of climate change and mismanagement of land and water.

In some places in Iraq on Saturday, visibility was limited to less than 500 metres.

Iraq experienced a series of dust storms last month, with dozens needing hospital treatment for respiratory problems.

Iraq’s meteorological office previously told AFP the country is likely to see more and more dust storms due to drought, desertification and declining rainfall. A lack of green areas in and around cities can also contribute to the problem.

In 2016, The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) predicted that Iraq could witness 300 dust events in a year by 2026.

An Iraqi policeman directs traffic during a severe dust storm in the capital BaghdadGETTY IMAGES
An Iraqi policeman directs traffic in Baghdad
An Iraqi cleaner works to clean the street during a severe dust storm in the Iraqi capital BaghdadGETTY IMAGES
Iraq has experienced record low rainfall and high temperatures in recent years
Vehicles drive along a road during a severe dust storm in Iraq's capital BaghdadGETTY IMAGES
In November, the World Bank said Iraq could suffer a 20% fall in water resources by 2050
Vehicles drive along a road during a severe dust storm in Iraq's capital BaghdadGETTY IMAGES
Dust storms can cause respiratory illness and heart disease, says the WHO
A aerial picture taken by drone shows the southern Iraqi city of Najaf during a dust stormGETTY IMAGES
A aerial image of the southern city of Najaf, taken by drone

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