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 in a statement on Friday.
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% of the autumn period, up from 33% 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 of Local Development and Environment will also promote alternatives to burning rice straw and operate a 24-hour environmental emergency room to receive reports and deploy response teams.
