- Dehydration: the air in deserts is very dry with low moisture content, causing rapid loss of water from the body through sweat and respiration.
- Sunstroke: the intense sunlight in deserts can cause sunburns and heatstroke, leading to dehydration and other serious health conditions.
- Dunes: dunes are hills of loose sand that can shift and obstruct travel routes, making navigation challenging and potentially hazardous.
- Flash floods: while deserts are typically dry, sudden intense rainfall can lead to flash floods that carry debris and pose risks to people and property.
- Sandstorms: strong winds pick up sand and dust creating reduced visibility, sometimes disrupting transportation, and exposing people to respiratory illnesses.
- Extreme temperature changes: deserts experience significant temperature variations between day and night. Nights can be extremely cold, while daytime temperatures can reach scorching levels.
- Venomous animals: some deserts are home to venomous snakes, spiders, and scorpions that pose a threat to human safety.
- Lack of vegetation: deserts lack sufficient vegetation, making it challenging to find food and resources for survival.
- Isolation: deserts are often remote and sparsely populated, making it difficult to access help or emergency assistance.
- Sinking sands: some desert areas may contain "quicksand" or loose, waterlogged sand that can trap and immobilize people or vehicles.