Could dust storm cause mold odor and symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

After the heavy dust storm we had last month, I noticed a strange odor lingering in the living room. It’s not like anything else in the house, more of a stale, musty smell that seems to get worse every day. My kids have been complaining of coughing and runny noses since it happened, and now my wife is also starting to show similar symptoms. Is this from dust or mold buildup in the ducts? Could cleaning the ducts solve our issues?
Posted by Noura Al-Zahrani
Asked on January 31, 2026 7:30 pm
0
Absolutely, a dust storm can potentially lead to mold odour and symptoms. After such an event, the influx of dust particles and moisture into your home can indeed create conditions that favor mold growth. In Dubai, post-storm scenarios are not uncommon as the high sand content in the air can introduce significant amounts of particulates, which combined with humidity levels, could easily lead to a musty smell and health issues.

The symptoms you're experiencing - coughing, runny noses - could very well be linked to mold exposure. Mold spores floating through your ducts after a dust storm can get distributed throughout the home when the HVAC system operates, causing these respiratory issues in family members with more sensitive immune systems or those who have allergies.

Given the circumstances you're describing, it would definitely be prudent to call 800-MOLDS or email hello@saniservice.com for a professional inspection. A certified environmental inspector can assess your ductwork and HVAC system for mold presence and recommend appropriate remediation steps tailored specifically for your home in Dubai.

Cleaning the ducts might indeed alleviate some of these issues, but it's crucial to ensure that this is done properly to prevent further health risks. Professional cleaners have the right equipment and knowledge to remove not only visible dirt but also deeply embedded mold without causing cross-contamination or spreading spores around your living space.

Remember, maintaining good indoor air quality is key in Dubai’s climate, especially with the high levels of dust and sand during storms. Regular maintenance checks on your HVAC system can go a long way in preventing such issues from arising.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on February 4, 2026 10:41 pm