ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF DUST STORMS IN THE SOUTHERN ARAL SEA REGION

Abstract

This study presents the results of a comprehensive environmental assessment of the impacts of dust storms on the major environmental components of the Southern Aral Sea region. The assessment was based on field monitoring conducted during 2023–2026 at six representative sites within the Lower Amu Darya oasis, including Muynak Bay, the Telman waterbody, Lake Dautkul, the Kvadrat urban waterbody (Nukus), Lake Akshakol, and the Tuyamuyun Reservoir. A comparative analysis of near-surface ambient air quality, surface water quality, and soil conditions was carried out under both normal meteorological conditions and during dust storm events. The results showed that the concentration of PM₁₀ aerosol particles in the near-surface atmosphere increased by 5.4–9.3 times during dust storms, indicating a substantial deterioration in air quality. Surface waters and soils exhibited increased concentrations of chlorides, sulfates, and total dissolved solids, reflecting intensified secondary salinization and degradation of natural ecosystems. The spatial distribution of dust storm impacts displayed a pronounced latitudinal pattern, with the highest impact levels recorded in the northern part of Karakalpakstan adjacent to the Aralkum Desert and a gradual decrease toward the south. To quantitatively characterize the environmental consequences of dust storms, an integrated Dust Storm Impact Index was developed, incorporating changes in ambient air quality, surface water quality, and soil conditions. The proposed approach provides a practical framework for comparative environmental risk assessment across different territories and can be applied to improve environmental monitoring systems, model the consequences of salt-dust transport, and support the development of environmental management strategies under ongoing desertification in the Southern Aral Sea region.