Martian dust storms as a machinery problem

Are Martian dust storms too weak to pose a serious danger to people and equipment?

Their winds are not the only issue; enormous dust systems can block sunlight and damage or contaminate exposed machinery.

The discussion distinguishes the force of Martian winds from the operational effects of dust. European Space Agency material is cited for dust systems roughly one to two thousand kilometers across. Even if such winds do not throw heavy equipment like an Earth storm, dust can obscure solar power, infiltrate mechanisms, and abrade exposed vehicles. Colony machinery must be designed around persistent environmental exposure and maintenance requirements as well as peak loads.