A dust storm, also known as a sandstorm or haboob, is a weather phenomenon characterized by strong winds blowing dust and sand into the atmosphere, reducing visibility and causing a range of health problems. Other synonyms for dust storm include sand haze, dust devil, dirt storm, and sand funnel. These terms describe the same weather conditions but may occur in different contexts or regions. While they are often associated with desert landscapes, dust storms can occur in any area with loose soil and high winds. They are commonly observed in arid regions of the world, such as the Sahara Desert, Arabian Peninsula, and the American Southwest.