New sandstorm wave hits southeastern Iran, prompting closure of all establishments

A new wave of a sandstorm has hit the province of Sistan and Baluchestan in southeastern Iran, prompting the closure of all commercial and government establishments.

Only medical facilities are functioning, Tasnim news agency reports.

"A new wave of the storm has again hit the province of Sistan and Baluchestan, including 5 cities of Zabol, Zaak, Hamun, Hirmand and Nimruz located in the north of the province, the storm gusts have been continuing for a day," the report said.

The crisis management headquarters of Sistan and Baluchestan province decided to close all commercial and government offices, banks in 5 cities of the province, except for medical and service organizations serving essential goods.

Earlier, the Iranian media, citing the deputy head of the University of Medical Sciences of Sistan and Baluchestan province, reported that at least 733 people were injured as a result of the latest wave of sandstorms that hit the province last weekend.