A strong wind carrying sand through the air. The diameter of most of the particles ranges from 0.08 to 1 mm. In contrast to a duststorm, the sand particles are mostly confined to the lowest 3.5 m (10 ft), rarely rise more than 15 m (50 ft) above the ground, and proceed mainly in a series of leaps ( saltation). Sandstorms are best developed in desert regions where there is loose sand, often in dunes, without much admixture of dust. Sandstorms are due to strong winds caused or enhanced by surface heating and tend to form during the day and die out at night.
A strong wind carrying sand particles through the air. They are low level occurences, usually only ten feet in height to not more than fifty feet above the surface. Due to the frequent winds created by surface heating, they are most predominate during the day and die out in the night. Visibility is reduced to between 5/8ths and 6/16ths statute mile, and if less than 5/16ths, then the storm is considered a heavy sandstorm. It is reported as "SS" in an observation and on the METAR.