Sandstorm sweeps Algeria Algiers – Hussien Bou Saleh Significant parts of western Algeria on Wednesday morning were swept with heavy sandstorms, with the regions of Telmsan, and Sidi Bel Abbes, and Naama being among the worst affected. The storm made it impossible for drivers to navigate, while fallen trees blocked roads.
The Directorate of Civil Protection in Western Algeria has said there were no casualties.
Sources informed Arabstoday that National Road No 22, which links between Telmsan and Naama, was part-closed due to low visibility.
 Sidi Bel Abbes also witnessed a fire that destroyed large tracts of forests leading to soaring temperatures in the northern regions of Africa\'s largest country.
The deteriorating climate also caused a large number of citizens to suffocate, especially among those suffering from respiratory diseases.
The Telmsan hospital received over 100 asthma patients.
The General Directorate of Civil Protection has said its staff is at the ready to deal with the event. The weather is supposed to improve with rains approaching the western highlands.