A fine grey layer of sand, blown from the northeast this week-end, has already caused a million pounds ($550,000) worth of damage to crops and forests and endangered the lives and health of many Israelis.
An unusually cold sand storm has destroyed crops and fanned small brush and forest fires into major blazes. Doctors have issued warnings to asthmatics and others suffering from respiratory difficulties and persons with skin sensitivities to stay indoors and avoid contact with the fine powder. The major burden of the storm and subsequent damage has fallen on the Negev, though the north and central regions have also been hit.
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The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.