haboob

American  

[huh-boob] / həˈbub /

noun

1. a thick dust storm or sandstorm that blows in the deserts of North Africa and Arabia or on the plains of India.

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Etymology

Origin of haboob

First recorded in 1895–1900, haboob is from the Arabic word habūb a strong wind

Example Sentences

There is also good news for Central Valley residents: The rain that followed the haboob soaked the valley floor, so forecasters believe another dust storm is unlikely.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 12, 2024

A dust wall pushed by thunderstorms, also called a haboob, blew over the Phoenix area on Monday, according to the National Weather Service.

From BBC • Jul. 18, 2023

Furthermore, even the leading exporters of crude can see the haboob brewing for their product.

From Time • Jan. 25, 2016

People farm corn — the one crop left unravaged by blight — watch baseball games in half-empty stands, and flee towering haboob dust storms announced by air raid sirens.

From The Verge • Oct. 27, 2014

In Eastern Washington, near the city of Spokane, an intense dust storm known as a haboob preceded thunderstorms, reducing visibility to zero.

From Reuters • Aug. 13, 2014