A haboob is a type of intense dust storm carried by the wind of a weather front or thunderstorm, often found in dry land regions around the world. It forms when downdrafts from a collapsing thunderstorm gust outward, sweeping up loose dust and dirt to create a massive wall of airborne sediment that can be several kilometers high and up to 100 km wide. Haboobs can reach wind speeds of 35–100 km/h (22–62 mph) and often cause a sudden reduction in visibility and dangerous conditions, such as traffic hazards. The name "haboob" originates from the Arabic word meaning "blowing." These storms are typical in arid and semi-arid areas like the Southwestern United States, the Sahara Desert, and the Arabian Peninsula, frequently occurring during monsoon seasons or thunderstorms. Despite their dramatic appearance, haboobs are generally short-lived but can severely disrupt travel and pose health risks due to dust inhalation.