Egypt has begun preparations for its annual campaign to combat severe air pollution, known as the “Black Cloud,” during autumn 2026, Local Development and Environment Minister Manal Awad said.
Awad said authorities would rely on early weather forecasts and emissions monitoring to intervene before pollution levels worsen. Early-warning data indicate stagnant or light-wind conditions could account for about 37 percent of the autumn period, up from 33 percent last year, increasing the risk of pollutant accumulation.
The plan includes intensified inspections of agricultural waste burning, industrial facilities, brick kilns and landfills, as well as daily vehicle-emissions checks.The ministry will also promote alternatives to burning rice straw and operate a 24-hour environmental emergency room to receive reports and deploy response teams.
