A locust plague has hit fields and farmlands in the Giza region of Egypt, just ahead of Passover.
Officials estimate that at least 30 million insects have swarmed the skies and landed about 15 miles southwest of Cairo. The insects are causing massive agricultural damage in the area, Alwatan News reports.
“Egyptian armed forces and border guards are attempting to fight the swarm with all means at their disposal,” said Egyptian Agriculture Minister Salah Abd Al Mamon.
“I ask the families living in the locust-plagues areas not to burn tires,” he said. “This does not chase away the locusts, but only causes damage and could ignite large-scale fires that would cost in lives.”
Officials hope increasing winds will carry the locusts toward the Red Sea and Saudi Arabia.
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.