In pictures: Saudi sandstorm

One of the most powerful sandstorms in decades hit the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh on Monday.

The storm lasted for several hours causing flights to be diverted and closing schools.

An eerie glow covered the city's streets and reduced visibility to a few metres in places.

There were also big traffic jams as drivers crawled along trying to avoid accidents.

People on the street tried to cover up to avoid inhaling sand, but medics still had to treat some for breathing problems.

Riyadh is used to springtime storms, but residents now face the prospect of removing tonnes of grit and sand from the city.

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