How high can dust from Takla Makan Desert storms rise into the atmosphere?

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Map of Asia highlighting the location of the Takla Makan Desert in northwestern China, with the desert area shaded in orange. Surrounding regions, including parts of Europe, Africa, and the Pacific Ocean, are shown for geographic context. An inset in the top right corner provides a global view with the desert's location marked. — Takla Makan Desert The Takla Makan Desert is flanked by high mountain ranges: the Tien Shan to the north, the Kunlun Mountains to the south, and the Pamirs to the west.

During the spring, when surface temperatures rise and strong northeasterly winds develop, the Takla Makan Desert experiences frequent, intense dust storms. These storms can lift dust into the atmosphere to altitudes of approximately 13,000 feet (4,000 metres).1