HKDSE Geography/E2/Impacts of Sandstorms

Impacts on Primary Industries

 * Fields are buried. Sand and dust block out sunlight and discourage photosynthesis. Crop failure may occur.
 * Farming infrastructure and facilities, such as irrigation canals, are damaged by sandstorms. They take months to resume activity.
 * Winds blow away topsoil and crops. Nutrients in the topsoil and organic carbons are lost. Soil fertility is severely damaged.

Impacts on Secondary Industries

 * Some factories may be closed down or even have their machinery damaged by sandstorms.
 * Labour productivity decreases as people get sick.

Impacts on Tertiary Industries

 * Flights are delayed. Rail services may be cancelled as well.
 * Vehicles are damaged by the sand.

Impacts on Everyday Life

 * Visibility decreases greatly.
 * Buildings are eroded.
 * Dust particles may carry viruses and fungi from the source area to spread diseases and cause outbreaks or even epidemics.
 * Allergies are triggered. Respiratory diseases like asthma and cardiovascular diseases are also possible. Healthcare spending increases