| Asian Dust |
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| environment of china | |
| environment of japan | |
| environment of korea | |
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The dust is caused by Desertification in northern China near the Gobi Desert . Although such storms have occurred from time to time throughout history, they became a pronounced problem in the latter half of the 20th century, as agricultural pressures on the Gobi region intensified. In recent years, South Korea and the People's Republic Of China have participated in Reforestation efforts in the source region. However, this has not affected the problem in any significant way. In April 2006, South Korean meteorologists reported the worst yellow dust storm in four years. 1 LOCAL NAMES Asian dust is known locally by various names, each of which means "yellow dust" or "yellow sand":
COMPOSITION An analysis of Asian Dust clouds conducted in China in 2001 showed them to contain high concentrations of Silicon (24-32%), Aluminum (5.9-7.4%), Calcium (6.2-12%), and Iron , although numerous substances were also present. Concentrations of various constituent parts vary by location, as it is thought that heavier materials settle out of the clouds closer to the origin. An American study analyzing the composition of dust events over Colorado also points to the presence of Carbon Monoxide , possible incorporated in the clouds as they passed over industrialized regions of Asia. HISTORICAL REPORTS The first known record of an Asian Dust event in Korea was in 174 CE during the Silla Dynasty . The dust was known as "Woo-To (雨土)" and was believed at the time to be the result of an angry god sending down dust instead of rain or snow. Specific records referring to Asian Dust events in Korea also exist from the Baekje , Goguryeo , and Joseon periods. SEE ALSO
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