As a city planner in San Antonio, TX, it is essential to understand the potential impacts of Saharan dust storms on the city's air quality, temperature, power grid, traffic, and citizens' health.

Saharan dust storms can decrease rainfall in affected areas, including those in the Americas, and increase heat in these regions, which can have significant impacts on the city's temperature and air quality.

The dust storms can also carry harmful bacteria and fungi globally, introducing microbes into North America and affecting human health, particularly for people with pre-existing conditions.

To prepare for contemporary Saharan dust storms, it is crucial to monitor atmospheric conditions and issue warnings for areas that may be affected, particularly those with high populations of people with pre-existing health conditions.

The city's power grid may be impacted by the dust storms, and measures such as modernizing power systems, expanding infrastructure, and transitioning to renewable energy sources can help reduce the vulnerability of the power grid to natural disasters.

However, dust storms can reduce solar energy production by up to 80 percent, highlighting the need for dust-resistant measures and forecasting and proactive management to mitigate the impact on the power grid.

The city's traffic management system can be optimized using Intelligent Transportation Systems, Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, and AI-powered traffic management to reduce congestion and enhance safety during low-visibility conditions caused by dust storms.

To support citizens with pre-existing respiratory conditions, implementing a proactive approach to mitigate risks, evaluating weather-related risks, and developing a comprehensive hazard mitigation plan are essential.

The city can also inform citizens about the storm's effects, necessary precautions, and available resources through public awareness campaigns, which can be developed using clear goals, analyzing audience demographics, and creating new channels.

Overall, understanding the potential impacts of Saharan dust storms on San Antonio and taking proactive measures to prepare for and respond to these events can help minimize the negative effects and ensure the city's resilience.

The city's air quality can be affected by Saharan dust storms, which can exacerbate respiratory illnesses like asthma and COPD, and worsen air quality levels.

People with lung diseases should take precautions during dust storms, such as wearing particle-retaining masks, and staying indoors to minimize the risk of exacerbating their condition.

The city's traffic may be impacted by low-visibility conditions caused by dust storms, and measures such as slowing down, using headlights and fog lights, and avoiding sudden breaks or acceleration can help mitigate the risks associated with low-visibility conditions.

The city's power grid can be impacted by dust storms, and measures such as modernizing power systems, expanding infrastructure, and transitioning to renewable energy sources can help reduce the vulnerability of the power grid to natural disasters.

The city can also take measures to support citizens with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as providing masks, developing a comprehensive hazard mitigation plan, and evaluating weather-related risks.

The economic impacts of Saharan dust storms on San Antonio's businesses and industries can be significant, with potential losses in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

The global cost of dust and sand storms is estimated to be around $3.6 trillion, and the Middle East and North Africa region loses $150 billion annually.

However, the specific economic impacts of Saharan dust storms on San Antonio's businesses and industries are not available in the provided context.

To mitigate the effects of dust storms, businesses and industries in San Antonio can provide masks to employees and customers, invest in renewable energy sources, and implement environmental regulations and awareness.

Green initiatives can also help mitigate desertification effects, and Sub-Saharan Africa is a main contributor to global dust storms.

In terms of public awareness campaigns, the city can develop clear goals, analyze audience demographics, and create new channels to reach a wider audience and deliver a message positively.

Measuring media impressions can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of public awareness campaigns, and hiring experts for interviews and advice can provide valuable insights.

Targeted media lists can result in significant coverage, and visual documentation is necessary to show the impact of public awareness campaigns.

The city can also use social media channels to deliver messages positively and provide important information, such as warning of potential weather hazards, to help citizens prepare for and respond to storms.

Overall, understanding the potential impacts of Saharan dust storms on San Antonio and taking proactive measures to prepare for and respond to these events can help minimize the negative effects and ensure the city's resilience.

The city can develop public awareness campaigns to inform citizens about the storm's effects, necessary precautions, and available resources, and take measures to support citizens with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

The city can also take measures to mitigate the economic impacts of dust storms on businesses and industries, such as providing masks, investing in renewable energy sources, and implementing environmental regulations and awareness.

By taking a proactive and comprehensive approach, the city can reduce the risks associated with Saharan dust storms and ensure the health, safety, and well-being of its citizens.

As a city planner in San Antonio, TX, it is essential to understand the potential impacts of Saharan dust storms on the city's air quality, temperature, power grid, traffic, and citizens' health.

As a city planner in San Antonio, TX, it is essential to understand the potential impacts of Saharan dust storms on the city's air quality, temperature, power grid, traffic, and citizens' health.

As a city planner in San Antonio, TX, it is essential to understand the potential impacts of Saharan dust storms on the city's air quality, temperature, power grid, traffic, and citizens' health.

Saharan dust storms can decrease rainfall in affected areas, including those in the Americas, and increase heat in these regions, which can have significant impacts on the city's temperature and air quality.

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Content: Havana, Cuba.- Cubans are entering the final days of July with a forecast of high temperatures, accompanied by little rain throughout the national territory.

In recent days, the heat punished the inhabitants of the Caribbean island, where through the Institute of Meteorology it was learned that in 38 of the 68 stations subordinate to the scientific entity, temperatures above 34 Celsius degrees were reported.

Meanwhile, the nightly broadcast of the National Television Newscast specified that in the eastern territory of Granma 39°C were registered on Saturday.

Behind it, the most overwhelmed towns were Colón in the western province of Matanzas with 37.2 °C; and Bainoa, in the also western province of Mayabeque, with 36.5 °C; while in the capital the thermometers marked 36 °C.

Days prior to the establishment of these temperature records for the current month, the Institute of Meteorology warned about the arrival of a cloud of dust from the Sahara on the island.

The experts explained that this phenomenon would cause a new decrease in rainfall and would maintain the feeling of great heat.

These clouds contain iron, silica, fungi, bacteria, viruses, various pathogenic mites, among other elements. They can cause acute respiratory diseases, allergies and skin problems.

Dust from the Sahara affects coral reefs, and fruit, rice, sugar cane, bean and other crops. It is caused by storms that occurred in the Sahara desert, coming out of the African continent.

It moves over the freshest and most humid marine air, and joining the flow of the trade winds, it quickly reaches the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

increases temperature
lowers rain chances
lowers air quality

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

The dust storms can also carry harmful bacteria and fungi globally, introducing microbes into North America and affecting human health, particularly for people with pre-existing conditions.

Title:

Content: 03-27-2024

Sahara desert dust storms carry harmful bacteria and fungi around the globe

We often dismiss springtime allergies as reactions to local pollen. Yet, something else might cause our sniffles and sneezes: a massive dust storms that originate thousands of miles away in Africa’s Sahara region.

These gargantuan dust plumes travel the globe every summer, carrying a cocktail of pollutants and potential pathogens across continents.

Dr. Shankar Chellam, a Texas A&M University professor is leading the charge to understand the biological hitchhikers within dust storms.

He and his team are working to determine what microbes, specifically bacteria and fungi, migrate with the dust and explore their potential impact on human health.

Hidden passengers in Sahara dust

“We all get allergies and potentially other more severe health effects when we breathe in dust, and it’s not fully known as to what causes those allergies,” said Dr. Chellam.

“Some people may think it is just the sand or clay minerals in the dust. Others think it is the metals or organics in the dust, and then some think it’s the bacteria and fungi.”

The Saharan dust cloud carries vast amounts of sand particles that transport bacteria and fungi.

Dr. Chellam’s research uniquely addresses how Saharan dust storms introduce these microbes into North America.

What the dust storm from Sahara tells us

Dr. Chellam and his team analyzed samples from a Saharan dust event that reached Houston in 2018. They measured metals, bacteria, and fungi to investigate any connections.

Fascinatingly, their findings revealed strong links between the biodiversity of the microbes and specific elements, especially calcium.

While these elements occur naturally in the Sahara, they also exist in our local environments. Pinpointing the exact origin of the dust and its cargo remains a challenge that scientists continue to tackle.

Our air – Not as empty as we think

Perhaps the most startling discovery is that even seemingly lifeless clouds of dust brim with biological activity.

“A key takeaway from this study is that a lot of biodiversity is not scientifically described. It doesn’t have a name, it can’t be cultured, and because it can’t be cultured, it’s difficult to study,” explained Dr. Daniel Spalink, assistant professor at Texas A&M.

The team’s high-tech DNA analysis allowed them to create an inventory of bacteria and fungi, even if the microbes themselves weren’t active.

Surprisingly, they found traces of several pathogens known to cause disease in humans, as listed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

“It doesn’t tell us if they are going to be able to infect us and make us sick,” Spalink cautions, “But at least the DNA of several pathogenic bacteria and fungi were identified in the African dust.”

Impact of climate change on Sahara dust

Climate change is altering weather patterns globally. This transformation affects dust storm behavior, leading to variations in their frequency and intensity.

In 2020, the United States experienced the most massive Saharan dust storm ever recorded, which experts named “Godzilla.”

This event highlighted the potential for increasing occurrences of such dust invasions. “The whole dynamics of the Saharan dust coming to Houston is primarily driven by atmospheric processes,” said Dr. Sourav Das, a former student of Dr. Chellam.

Global connection of Sahara dust

Sahara dust storm travels far beyond the borders of North America, affecting global environmental systems in profound ways.

This dust, originating from the vast Sahara Desert, embarks on transcontinental journeys that influence climate, ocean biology, and ecosystems far removed from its source.

The Saharan dust plays a critical role in climate regulation. As it travels across oceans and continents, it reflects sunlight back into space, cooling the Earth’s surface.

This natural phenomenon acts as a counterbalance to the warming effects of greenhouse gases, showcasing how desert dust can influence global temperatures.

However, the dust also carries microorganisms and nutrients, such as phosphorus, that fertilize remote ecosystems, from the Amazon rainforest to the Caribbean Sea, demonstrating nature’s complex nutrient cycles.

Benefits to oceans

Ocean biology benefits from the nutrient-rich dust as well. When Saharan dust settles on ocean waters, it delivers essential minerals that stimulate the growth of phytoplankton.

These microscopic plants form the foundation of the oceanic food chain, supporting a diverse array of marine life.

The influx of nutrients from the Sahara can thus boost marine productivity, affecting fish populations and the global fishing industry.

Disadvantages

The impact of Saharan dust is not universally beneficial. In ecosystems unaccustomed to the influx of foreign particles and nutrients, the dust can disrupt local environments.

For example, excessive dust deposition can smother coral reefs, blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis. This can stress coral ecosystems, leading to bleaching events and loss of biodiversity.

Moreover, the health implications of Saharan dust extend across continents. The dust carries not only nutrients but also pollutants and pathogens that can affect air quality and public health.

Communities in the path of these dust plumes may experience increased respiratory issues, allergies, and diseases, highlighting the need for global health monitoring and preparedness.

Study insights

It’s crucial to gather data across multiple dust events, spanning many years, to get a clearer picture of these airborne microbial communities and how they might transform over time.

While a lot remains unknown, research like this shines a spotlight on the hidden travelers swirling in the air we breathe — travelers who might be affecting our health in surprising ways.

The next time you catch a glimpse of a dust storm rolling in, remember the globe-trotting microbes it carries!

The findings of the study are published in Environmental Science & Technology.

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How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

To prepare for contemporary Saharan dust storms, it is crucial to monitor atmospheric conditions and issue warnings for areas that may be affected, particularly those with high populations of people with pre-existing health conditions.

Title:

Content: Dust storms.
sources and danger.
|
At the beginning of this year's spring season, the incidence of dust storms increased significantly.
Their frequency varies from year to year, but generally increases in the transitional periods between seasons, especially spring and autumn, for many reasons, some natural and others of a human nature, that is, by man.
Dust storms are fast winds that transport dust and plankton, causing a lack of visibility at short distances.
Despite the great controversy over the causes of dust or dust storms and the fact that the camel bears full responsibility for their occurrence, as stated in one of the videos circulated on social media, the reasons are not limited to the poor camel alone, even if it is one of the reasons!
The causes of dust storms are many, including: (1) Desertification as a result of drought resulting from low rainfall.
(2) Desertification due to human activities associated with overgrazing as a result of increasing numbers of camels and sheep on pasture capacity.
(3) Extensive agricultural activities, especially ploughing the land and leaving it exposed for long periods.
(4) Soil movement as a result of development and military actions and absurd car tracks in deserts that led to the breaking and dismantling of the soil and the destruction of vegetation cover.
(5) The reduction of the surface groundwater table, which led to the drying of the soil and thus the impact on the vegetation cover.
Globally, sub-Saharan Africa is the main contributor to Earth ’ s dust storms, which travel to the Americas via the Atlantic Ocean via tropical east winds.
But the Fertile Crescent has also become a source of dust, due to the halving of agricultural production as a result of climate change.
Iraq is one of the sources of dust storms as a result of the decline of the level of rivers, which led to the drought of the marshes and lakes in Iraq and Iran, and add to the list of sources open deserts of the Kingdom, which suffer environmental degradation as a result of human tampering of unfair grazing and wood and the like.
Dust storms are one of the factors responsible for increased allergic reactions, asthma attacks and chronic breathing problems, as well as blood vessels and heart disease.
Dust storms are also carriers of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, germs and viruses that cause certain diseases.
Besides, dust storms have economic effects, they adversely affect agricultural production by transporting agricultural pests, reducing photosynthetic activity, destroying crops, as well as affecting infrastructure, by reducing visibility, disrupting energy and air and road transport systems, burying railways, as well as contributing to the deterioration of the performance of solar panels, as well as damaging residential property.
There is no doubt that dust storms and their increased frequency are a warning sign that requires a rapid response through a review of environmental regulations, the need to raise the environmental awareness of the population, the organization of grazing seasons based on the identification of the pastoral capacity of each region, as well as innovative solutions to mitigate desertification that benefit from tremendous technical progress.
Finally, it follows from the above that the problem is not country-specific, but a regional problem that requires concerted efforts.
The Green Middle East initiative by Prince Mohammed bin Salman is designed to design innovative solutions to address climate change and promote environmental sustainability through a number of projects, including: planting 50 billion trees across the Middle East region and reclaiming 200 million hectares of degraded land through afforestation, which contributes to a 2.5 per cent reduction in global carbon emissions.
Publish it.

Title:

Content: Saharan dust reaches stunning levels in Atlantic. Here's what that means for hurricane season

Significant Saharan dust plumes are common in the Atlantic during the start of hurricane season. If levels of SAL maintain a steadiness after about Aug. 20, then there would be significant ramifications to both the amount of cyclones and their overall strength.

First, Europe that was socked in by record levels of dust from the Sahara Desert in Africa. The Atlantic appears to have now taken the lead, with dust levels not seen in years across parts of the basin.

Satellite measurements indicate intensive plumes of dust, called the Saharan Air Layer, across much of the eastern Atlantic. Traces of dust have even made the more than 4,000-mile journey to Florida and the Gulf Coast.

Sunrises and sunsets have been enhanced across the Sunshine State as the particles scatter typical colors, allowing hues of orange, yellow and red to dominate the sky.

Aside from the vibrant colors, something not falling from the sky is precipitation.

According to NOAA, the air surrounding the SAL has about 50% less moisture than the typical atmosphere. This means the presence of the SAL can be detrimental to cloud formation and thunderstorm activity.

Significant plumes of dust and dry air are common during the first months of the hurricane season and usually persist through mid-August.

A LOOK AT A PHENOMENON THAT COULD DERAIL AN ACTIVE HURRICANE SEASON

How Saharan dust impacts hurricane season

NOAA estimates that more than 180 million tons of dust leave the African continent every year, reducing thunderstorm activity and tropical cyclone formation.

Dry air and Saharan dust are perennial wild cards in tropical weather outlooks, as meteorology has yet to develop sufficient methods to forecast plumes weeks and months in advance.

Years with significant dust often experience reduced cyclone activity. Seasons with minimal dust typically rank at the top echelons of activity, thanks to increased moisture availability for tropical systems and warmer water temperatures.

The current season is a bit unusual as water temperatures started on the warm side across much of the basin, negating any minor effects from a dust storm.

Warm waters and limited exposure to dry air helped with the formations of AlbertoBeryl and Chris during late June and early July.

Since Beryl’s historic trek through the Caribbean and into the Gulf of Mexico, the basin has been relatively quiet, a likely product of the increase in dry air.

The trend for limited activity in the Atlantic basin is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, meaning that the next cyclone formation may be weeks away.

5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE SAHARAN DUST PLUME

During an average year, the fourth-named storm usually doesn’t form until about Aug. 15, meaning any formation during the next month will keep the season ahead of a typical schedule.

Despite the hostile conditions in the Atlantic, hurricane forecasters at Colorado State University maintain that 2024 will be a busy season in the Atlantic.

CSU released its updated outlook Tuesday, which calls for an additional 22 named storms, 11 hurricanes and five major hurricanes.

"This forecast is of above-normal confidence. We anticipate a well above-average probability for major hurricane landfalls along the continental United States coastline and in the Caribbean," CSU forecasters stated during their most recent tropical update. "As with all hurricane seasons, coastal residents are reminded that it only takes one hurricane making landfall to make it an active season."

The season runs through Nov. 30, but nearly 60% of cyclone formation occurs in August and September.

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Title:

Content: 0

Layer of Saharan dust will affect the Bahamas by the weekend

By EARYEL BOWLEG

Tribune Staff Reporter

ebowleg@tribunemedia.net

RESIDENTS are urged to “safeguard their health” as a plume of Sahara dust moves over the south-east Bahamas.

The Department of Meteorology said the dust will gradually move across the country this weekend.

It warned the dust could be problematic for people with allergies and respiratory issues.

“Sahara dust is made of sand, dirt, and other dust particles that are lifted into the atmosphere from the vast Sahara Desert in Africa,” the advisory said.

Acting director of meteorology Jeffrey Simmons told The Tribune the dust tends to appear around this time every year.

He said the dust has lingered around southeastern islands for the past week, prompting some to complain about allergies.

“That’s the reason, you know, why we put out this warning alerting people about it, people who have these allergy issues or any respiratory issues so that they could, you know, be aware of the impact this could have on them for this weekend and possibly going into another week or two,” he said.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

The city's power grid may be impacted by the dust storms, and measures such as modernizing power systems, expanding infrastructure, and transitioning to renewable energy sources can help reduce the vulnerability of the power grid to natural disasters.

Title:

Content: There were 1,305 press releases posted in the last 24 hours and 400,286 in the last 365 days.

Energy Challenges: Global and Ukrainian Realities, and Ways to Overcome Them, Denys Kostrzhevskyi

Denys Kostrzhevskyi

KYIV, UKRAINE, July 23, 2024 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Power outages in Ukraine are becoming regular due to large-scale attacks on the energy system by Russia. The Economist reported that due to the extensive destruction and lack of funding for rapid recovery, the electricity shortage will remain large, and Ukraine has lost a total of about 90% of its generating capacity.

Global Electricity Situation
Abnormal heat around the world creates additional risks of power outages. According to Bloomberg, hotter summers significantly increase the demand for cooling, as well as increasing the risk of forest fires due to overheating of wires.

‘Unstable supplies and growing consumption may lead to blackouts, as was the case in Montenegro and neighbouring countries. Incidents related to high temperatures also occurred in Ecuador and India, affecting both developed and developing countries’, Denys Kostrzhevskyi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kyiv International Airport and Vice President of the European Facilitation Platform (EFP), says.

Impact of Climate Change on Power Grids
Climatic changes increase the vulnerability of power grids to various natural disasters: floods that destroy power transmission towers, droughts that dry up reservoirs, and surges in demand for cooling during heat. According to Bloomberg, the modernisation of power systems to achieve the goal of ‘net zero’ by 2050 will cost approximately USD 24.1 trillion.

‘This includes expanding and upgrading infrastructure that requires replacing outdated poles, wires, transformers, and other power grid components with more climate-resilient ones. An important step is also the use of new technologies, such as smart grids, which allow more efficient management of electricity consumption and distribution, faster detection and repair of damage,’ he continues.

The transition to renewable energy sources is another key area that requires significant investment. Increasing the share of solar and wind energy in the total energy balance requires the creation of new generation facilities and energy storage systems.

‘This will not only reduce dependence on fossil fuels, but also facilitate reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The development of inter-connectors between different countries and regions is also important for ensuring the stable electricity supply. Inter-connectors make it possible to quickly redirect electricity flows in case of accidents, which increases the reliability of the power system and reduces the risks of outages. These measures are necessary to create a sustainable and reliable energy system that can withstand the challenges of climate change’, Mr Kostrzhevskyi assures.

Situation in Ukraine
Since the beginning of the invasion, Russia has been attacking thermal, hydroelectric, and solar power plants in Ukraine, significantly reducing electricity production.

Last winter, Ukraine managed to partially restore power and survive the winter with fewer interruptions, but this year’s attacks exacerbated the problem again. Those Nuclear power plants that have not been destroyed cannot fully meet the needs of the country. Ukrainians and enterprises have to adapt to new conditions. People buy diesel generators, gas turbines, and batteries.

The energy sector plans to restore several more GW of capacity by winter due to the repair of damaged facilities and the supply of used equipment from Europe.

A long-term solution to the problem of electricity shortages will require significant efforts and time due to the destruction of critical infrastructure and lack of resources.

‘Energy efficiency should become a priority for every household and enterprise in Ukraine. The use of energy-efficient devices and optimisation of consumption will help reduce the load on the power system and reduce the risks of outages’, Denys Kostrzhevskyi believes.

He also thinks that only joint efforts of citizens and authorities can overcome today’s energy-related challenges. Responsible handling of energy resources and active international cooperation will help Ukraine and the world to withstand this difficult period and build a sustainable energy system in the future.

Editor
Center of Corporate Relations Research (CCRR)
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How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

However, dust storms can reduce solar energy production by up to 80 percent, highlighting the need for dust-resistant measures and forecasting and proactive management to mitigate the impact on the power grid.

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Research shows that dust storms coming from the Sahara Desert can severely damage solar energy production.
So, what can be done to better manage this problem?
Climate Now reports from Andalusia on efforts to beat the dust.
Announcement
On this month ’ s episode of Climate Now, we set out to southern Spain to report on the growing problem of Sahara dust, which has a significant impact on solar power generation.
Our visit to southern Spain comes as the Copernicus Climate Change Authority announced that we have seen the highest ever recorded temperature for May 2024, registering a temperature rise of 0.65 ° C above the 1991-2020 average.
This is the 12th consecutive month with the highest recorded temperature for the month in question.
In May 2024, we witnessed extreme weather conditions in many areas.
Floods in Brazil have displaced more than half a million people, temperatures in the Delhi region of India hit 49.9 degrees Celsius, its highest recorded to date, and Finland issued a heatwave warning of temperatures rising to more than 27 degrees Celsius.
In Europe, heavy rains led to flooding in southwestern Germany, Belgium, and northern Italy.
Massive losses in solar power generation due to Sahara dust
The dust of the Sahara Desert in Europe is famous for turning its skies orange, which reduces air quality and leaves a fine layer of dust on the roofs of homes and cars.
On the other hand, it causes another growing problem known as “dirty ” solar cells.
At Gianni University in Andalusia, we met with Dr. Eduardo Fernández and Professor Florencia Almonacid, who were among the authors of a recent paper that found that the severe dirt on the panels in March 2022 reduced solar capacity by up to 80 percent.
Dr Fernandez told Euronews: “It felt like we were on Mars where everything turned red. ”
March 2022 saw extreme weather, but even small amounts of dust could reduce the amount of sunlight reaching solar cells by 15%, and with the rapid growth of solar energy in Europe, losses from dirt could account for billions of euros a year.
Therefore, the research team at Jian University is using photovoltaic laboratories to find solutions.
Some scientists focus on developing dust-resistant layers, while others look at how dust accumulates with different weather conditions, such as high and low temperatures, and low rainfall.
There are many variables that need to be taken into account.
For example, dust grains may be of different sizes or colors, and can affect how well solar panel installations perform.
Even design elements make a difference, such as whether a painting is frameless or has a solid lip around its tip.
Professor Almonacid says that Sahara dust is particularly problematic: "Sahara dust particles are very fine.
It ’ s especially hard to clean. ”
The Cost and Benefit Dilemma of Solar Panel Cleaning
Renewable energy company Sonnedix faces the grime challenge every day, monitoring production from each solar power generation site and carefully calculating when cleaning PV panels is commercially feasible.
The cost of cleaning is considerable – around €400-500 per megawatt – so there are difficult choices to make depending on how the power plant is priced.
Joanne Fernandez, chief operating officer of the company, told Euronews: “As you generate electricity, every kilowatt-hour is important for the plant ’ s revenue, so this dust weather has a big impact. ”
He is now working with meteorologists to help plan cleaning sessions according to dirt weather conditions, and the amount of rainfall, as light spray may increase the soiling of the panels, and heavy rain may wash them away for free.
“Severe dust storms coming from the Sahara desert could actually lead to a significant reduction in production within the network, and this could cause a significant problem for the network operator, ” he explains.
“So forecasting, forecasting, and the ability to proactively manage the network is the most important, ” he says.
Announcement
Have dust storms from the Sahara increased due to climate change?
The recent increase in dust storms coming from the Sahara desert could be the result of natural climate variability, or it could be caused by something else.
A spokesman for the Copernicus Meteorological Authority told Euronews: “Although the arrival of dust plumes from the Sahara to Europe is not unusual, there has been an increase in the intensity and frequency of such weather conditions in recent years, and may be attributed to changes in atmospheric circulation patterns. ”
There is some speculation that these changes in atmospheric air circulation patterns are linked to climate change.
Dust expert Dr. Eduardo Fernandez says: “Scientists are always cautious about drawing conclusions, and that should be the case, right? ”
“But what we ’ re seeing is that there ’ s been a dramatic increase in extreme weather conditions, not just in terms of slabs getting dirty, but also in terms of rainfall and wind blowing.
“We are recording more dust storms coming from the Sahara, and they are increasingly penetrating into larger areas in northern Europe, and there is, of course, suspicion that global warming is the cause, ” he concludes.
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How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on infrastructure?

The city's traffic management system can be optimized using Intelligent Transportation Systems, Connected and Autonomous Vehicles, and AI-powered traffic management to reduce congestion and enhance safety during low-visibility conditions caused by dust storms.

Title:

Content: AI and Connected Vehicles Create New Road Maps for Smart Cities

Death, taxes — and traffic — are some of life’s unavoidable certainties. But in the quest for smarter, more efficient urban environments, artificial intelligence (AI) is helping to pave the way for significant advancements in traffic optimization by transforming intersections into smart, cloud-connected grids.

After all, AI can process complex datasets much faster than any human or traditional computer system could ever hope to, offering unprecedented insights into traffic patterns and enabling dynamic responses to changing conditions, which makes it an invaluable tool in the growing traffic management toolkit.

“AI is one component in a broader, complex and connected network, but it gives several advantages, including the ability for the system to learn,” Tal Kreisler, CEO and co-founder at NoTraffic, told PYMNTS for the PYMNTS “AI Effect” series.

That’s because the advent of AI in traffic management represents a foundational departure from traditional, rule-based systems toward adaptive, learning-based approaches.

“Think about it as something that works like a chess game calculating millions of scenarios in every given second and deciding about the next best thing to do considering what happened locally at the intersection, considering who is coming from the other intersections nearby, and subject to policies defined by the agencies such as prioritizing pedestrians, or public transportation next to schools public transportation, emergency vehicles, and so on,” Kreisler said.

And cities around the globe are increasingly turning to AI technologies to reduce congestion, enhance safety and improve the overall quality of urban living.

AI and Connected Vehicles: Revolutionizing Urban Optimization

While traffic management stands as a persistent challenge, one that has significant implications for efficiency, sustainability, and safety, the fusion of AI and connected vehicles — not just automobiles — presents a promising solution to the thorny problem of traffic and congestion.

“The majority of traffic lights both in the U.S. and also around the world are still operating based on based on timing plans, meaning that they do not have a lot of room for flexibility … and these systems were not designed to provide answers to the types of needs that modern intersections have around things like delivery vehicles, e-bikes, micro mobility, and other forms of mobility,” said Kreisler.

“The way we see it … once we have sensing devices deployed, then we can transform the intersections into a dynamic network that can operate in a holistic way that allows agencies to define various policies,” he added, noting that this capability ensures that customized solutions can be tailored to diverse traffic scenarios, including extreme weather conditions and varying traffic patterns.

The benefits of AI-powered traffic management extend far beyond mere optimization. By dynamically adjusting traffic signals based on real-time data, cities can significantly reduce delays, enhance pedestrian safety, mitigate congestion and improve overall traffic flow.

“If we want to prioritize pedestrians next to school in the morning, if we want to prioritize public transportation, emergency vehicles, side street versus main street, those types of policies can be defined and implemented. And from that point on, we should allow the system to run the network in the most efficient way to reduce delay, increase the throughput, but also serve these types of policies,” said Kreisler.

Improving Safety and Efficiency on the Roads

NoTraffic’s technology leverages edge computing, empowering sensors to analyze data autonomously and continuously improve models. The company’s collaborations with cities like British Columbia, Phoenix and Tucson have demonstrated remarkable outcomes, including substantial reductions in pedestrian wait times, vehicle accidents and fuel consumption.

Still, the widespread adoption of AI-driven traffic solutions faces many challenges related to technical readiness and regulatory compliance.

“One of the biggest benefits that I’m particularly excited about is the fact that we are transitioning from an industry of devices to an industry of software defined infrastructure, meaning that you don’t have a bunch of devices anymore fighting with integration … you have a single hardware platform and on top you have a layer of applications,” Kreisler said. “Allowing the interconnectivity between different solutions is the bigger picture.”

Looking ahead, he envisions a future where AI and connectivity synergize to create a more efficient and safer urban environment. Beyond traffic management, the integration of AI with diverse mobility modes, such as e-bikes and scooters, holds the promise of further enhancing transportation systems’ adaptability and responsiveness.

“The environment is becoming much more complex to manage, which is where more advanced technologies come into the picture, and why you need data,” Kreisler said.

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Content:

Why are road congestion and safety such pressing issues in the US today? With over 276 million vehicles registered and an average daily travel time of nearly an hour per person, the nation's roads are under immense pressure.

Traffic congestion costs the US economy an estimated $87 billion annually in wasted time and fuel, while traffic accidents result in approximately 38,000 deaths each year. Addressing these challenges is crucial not only for economic efficiency but also for public health and environmental sustainability. Let’s take a closer look.

Technological Solutions

Intelligent Transportation Systems are at the forefront of reducing road congestion and enhancing safety in the US. These systems utilize real-time data collected from various sources, such as traffic cameras, sensors, and GPS devices, to manage traffic flow effectively.

ITS helps in incident management by promptly detecting and responding to accidents or breakdowns, thereby minimizing delays and preventing secondary accidents.

Connected and Autonomous Vehicles also play a large role in mitigating traffic congestion and improving road safety. These vehicles communicate with each other and with infrastructure, reducing human error, which is responsible for most serious crashes.

Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication enables vehicles to share information about road conditions, traffic signals, and potential hazards, leading to smoother traffic flow and fewer accidents.

Infrastructure Improvements

Highway expansion projects are a critical component of alleviating road congestion in the US. States are investing billions of dollars to widen existing highways and construct new roads to accommodate the growing number of vehicles.

For example, Texas has committed billions over the next decade for highway expansion and improvement projects, including the addition of lanes to major interstates like I-35 and I-10 . These expansions aim to reduce bottlenecks and improve traffic flow, ultimately decreasing travel times for commuters.

Smart traffic signals represent another significant infrastructure improvement aimed at reducing congestion. These adaptive signal control technologies adjust traffic light timings based on real-time traffic data, which can significantly reduce delays at intersections. One study found that ASCT systems can improve travel time reliability by 10-50%.

Most of the US' workforce chooses to commute to and from work in their own vehicle, whether it be car, truck, or SUV. With a large urban population, that is a lot of drivers on the road, increasing the odds that you will be involved in a car or truck accident during your lifetime, warns an Indiana-based car accident attorney. Smart systems can mitigate this risk.

Public Transportation Enhancements

Many US cities are expanding their bus, rail, and subway systems to offer more comprehensive and reliable services. For instance, Los Angeles is investing $86 billion through its Measure M initiative to expand and improve its public transit infrastructure over the next 40 years.

This plan includes extending rail lines, enhancing bus services, and improving transit accessibility, which is expected to increase ridership by 25% by 2040. Similarly, New York City is undergoing a plan to modernize its subway system, focusing on signal upgrades, new rolling stock, and station renovations.

First-mile/last-mile solutions are also crucial in connecting people to major transit hubs and enhancing the overall efficiency of public transportation systems. Services like bike-sharing, e-scooters, and ride-hailing are increasingly being integrated into public transit networks to provide seamless door-to-door travel options.

Policy and Legislation

Congestion pricing is an effective policy tool being implemented in various US cities to reduce traffic congestion. This approach involves charging drivers a fee to enter high-traffic areas during peak hours, thereby encouraging the use of alternative transportation modes and reducing the number of vehicles on the road.

New York City is set to become the first major US city to implement congestion pricing, expected to start in 2024, with projected reductions in traffic by 15-20% and generating approximately $1 billion annually for public transit improvements.

Stricter speed limit enforcement is another legislative measure aimed at enhancing road safety. Speeding is a major factor in traffic accidents. To combat this, several states have implemented automated speed enforcement systems, such as speed cameras, to deter speeding and improve compliance with speed limits.

Innovative Urban Planning

The Complete Streets policy is a transformative approach to urban planning aimed at designing streets that are safe and accessible for all users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. This policy encourages the incorporation of features such as bike lanes, wider sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and traffic calming measures into road designs.

According to the National Complete Streets Coalition, over 1,600 jurisdictions in the US have adopted Complete Streets policies, leading to improved safety and accessibility. A study by Smart Growth America found that streets designed with these principles can reduce pedestrian injuries by 88% and vehicle crashes by 44%, highlighting the effectiveness of such designs in enhancing road safety and promoting active transportation.

Future Trends and Technologies

Mobility as a Service is an emerging trend poised to revolutionize transportation by integrating various forms of transport services into a single, accessible on-demand platform. MaaS platforms combine public transit, ride-sharing, bike-sharing, car rentals, and more into a seamless service that users can access via a single app.

According to a report by Research and Markets, the global MaaS market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.6% from 2020 to 2030, reaching a market size of $1.75 trillion. By offering a more convenient and flexible transportation solution, MaaS has the potential to reduce private car ownership and alleviate congestion, as people are more likely to opt for shared and efficient modes of travel.

Conclusion

How can the US effectively tackle road congestion and improve road safety in the coming years? The answer lies in a multi-faceted approach that combines technological advancements, infrastructure improvements, public transportation enhancements, and innovative urban planning.

The implementation of intelligent transportation systems can reduce travel times by up to 20%, while investments in public transit and first-mile/last-mile solutions can increase ridership by 30%.

Policies like congestion pricing are projected to cut traffic by 15-20% in major cities. By continuing to innovate and invest in these areas, the US can create safer, more efficient, and sustainable transportation systems for the future.

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Content: AI and Smart Transportation Infrastructure: Using Intelligent Systems for Traffic Management and Planning

AI-based Traffic Management Systems

As cities continue to grow and traffic congestion becomes a major issue, transportation planners are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to help manage traffic flow and improve overall transportation infrastructure. AI-based traffic management systems are being developed to help reduce congestion, improve safety, and increase efficiency on roads and highways.

One of the main benefits of AI-based traffic management systems is their ability to collect and analyze large amounts of data in real-time. This data can be used to identify traffic patterns, predict congestion, and optimize traffic flow. By using machine learning algorithms, these systems can continuously improve their accuracy and effectiveness over time.

One example of an AI-based traffic management system is the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) being developed in Singapore. The system uses a combination of sensors, cameras, and other data sources to monitor traffic conditions in real-time. This data is then analyzed by AI algorithms to predict traffic congestion and recommend optimal routes for drivers.

Another example is the Smart Mobility Platform being developed in Barcelona, Spain. The platform uses AI to analyze traffic data from various sources, including GPS devices, traffic cameras, and social media. This data is then used to create real-time traffic maps and provide drivers with personalized route recommendations.

AI-based traffic management systems are also being used to improve safety on roads and highways. For example, the City of Los Angeles is using AI to analyze traffic data and identify high-risk intersections. This information is then used to prioritize safety improvements, such as adding traffic signals or improving pedestrian crossings.

In addition to improving safety and reducing congestion, AI-based traffic management systems can also help reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. By optimizing traffic flow and reducing idling time, these systems can help reduce the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by vehicles.

However, there are also concerns about the use of AI in transportation infrastructure. One concern is the potential for bias in the algorithms used by these systems. For example, if the data used to train the algorithms is biased, the system may make decisions that disproportionately affect certain groups of people.

Another concern is the potential for cyber attacks on these systems. If a hacker gains access to an AI-based traffic management system, they could potentially cause chaos on the roads by manipulating traffic signals or causing accidents.

Despite these concerns, the use of AI in transportation infrastructure is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. As cities continue to grow and traffic congestion becomes a major issue, transportation planners will need to turn to intelligent systems to help manage traffic flow and improve overall transportation infrastructure.

In conclusion, AI-based traffic management systems have the potential to revolutionize transportation infrastructure by improving safety, reducing congestion, and increasing efficiency. However, it is important to address concerns about bias and cyber security to ensure that these systems are used in a responsible and ethical manner. As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how AI-based traffic management systems continue to develop and improve.

To support citizens with pre-existing respiratory conditions, implementing a proactive approach to mitigate risks, evaluating weather-related risks, and developing a comprehensive hazard mitigation plan are essential.

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Content:
Storm Resiliency And Response Checklist For Energy Utilities

(MENAFN- 3BL) Storm Resiliency and Response Checklist for Energy Utilities: Are You Ready?

Floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes and wildfires pose dangerous threats to critical infrastructure. In the wake of these natural disasters, the essential nature of the services that energy utilities provide becomes even more obvious. Service outages during extreme weather events threaten public health and safety and disrupt the economy. Without power, families can't heat their homes amid sub-freezing temperatures. Interruption of the power grid poses a significant threat beyond just financial loss and damage to reputation; the operational integrity of this critical infrastructure is vital to the community, and any disruption could endanger lives.

It keeps energy utilities up at night: a major storm has rolled through, and customers are without service. Systems need to be back up and running again as soon as possible. By adopting a proactive approach, it's possible to mitigate the risk of service disruptions. Energy utilities should consider the following four steps on the resiliency-bolstering journey: Plan, Prepare, Respond and Recover.

Step 1. Plan

Disasters are cyclical. The main goal of resiliency is to break the cycle so that the impacts of the next disaster are less severe for people and property. Planning and preparation may seem synonymous, but in this context, planning refers to actions taken years if not decades ahead of time. Consider the way we prioritize our personal health and well-being: while visiting an emergency doctor may be necessary on rare occasions, making preventative care visits to a primary physician lowers the risk of unforeseen health crises. Similarly, safeguarding our critical infrastructure requires a proactive approach centered around prevention. In the planning phase, it's critical for energy utilities to evaluate weather-related risks, identify vulnerable assets and infrastructure, and determine what can be done ahead of time to mitigate these risks.

New Infrastructure: Design for Resiliency

Although retrofits and repairs are unavoidable in some cases, the ideal strategy is to consider storm resiliency at the time of design and construction – going back as far as the site due diligence and land use planning stages. Before embarking on the development of critical infrastructure such as transmission lines or substations, consider the geographical features, elevations, and water levels of the proposed site. For ongoing construction projects, implement strategies to protect assets and equipment. Flood plains and shorelines are shifting, so assets close to waterways should consider a hydrology study and coastal terrain mapping. Energy utilities may also want to consider a long-term approach to undergrounding their power lines in regions prone to weather-related disruptions; underground lines are less vulnerable to storm damage, falling debris and other environmental factors that cause outages.

Existing Infrastructure: Mitigate Impacts

Aging infrastructure tends to be more at-risk; it's recommended to perform routine inspections and maintenance of rights-of-way. Develop a comprehensive hazard mitigation plan that includes a thorough risk assessment, operational optimizations, disaster procedure development, personnel training, and technology upgrade recommendations. Procure essential replacement parts and equipment ahead of time to avoid supply chain disruption in future emergencies. Analyze organizational effectiveness to assure staff are trained and available at critical times. Frequently test communications networks used to distribute evacuation warnings and other life-saving information. Many areas also have Local Emergency Planning Commissions (LEPCs) available to advise utilities directly on how to make infrastructure and operations more resilient.

Consider Climate Modeling

As weather events increase in severity, climate risk modeling is another modern planning measure that benefits service providers. Engaging a climate trend analysis consultant can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions regarding your service area. Predictive analytics reveal when existing infrastructure and physical assets may be at risk in the near and long term. These insights will help determine what, where and when to prioritize climate risk mitigation measures. Climate risk modeling also helps with making a strong business case for system hardening by enabling a cost-benefit analysis of potential preventative investments. Black & Veatch's eBook on climate modeling for utilities explains how to address key factors including location, weather patterns and climate change data.

Case Study: Proactive Texas Utility Protects Customers a Decade After Implementing Winterization Strategies

In February 2021, a powerful storm blanketed Texas with snow and ice. Record low temperatures knocked out power and heat to 4.5 million homes and businesses across the state. More than 200 lives were lost, and property damage amounted to more than $190 billion. New questions arose about confidence in the grid's resiliency. In the western Texas town of El Paso, the situation was significantly different. Out of El Paso Electric's 443,000 customers, less than 3,000 lost power during the polar vortex. Why was this city faring better than the rest of the state?

In 2011, El Paso experienced a traumatic storm which, at the time, was the region's worst weather event in half a century. After life-threatening disruptions to power and water, El Paso Electric decided they would never let this happen to their city again. The utility enlisted Black & Veatch's expertise and spent 18 months winterizing their generation, transmission, and distribution assets. El Paso Electric set a prime example for other utilities by taking system hardening measures to bolster grid integrity. In the event of the next polar blitz, strategic winterization blueprints could keep utilities and their most vulnerable customers from being left out in the cold. Learn more about this project here.

Step 2. Prepare

The planning phase consists of what an organization does on paper to document physical actions to take. During the preparedness phase, plans are executed to ensure that people, equipment, resources and infrastructure are ready before disaster strikes. Although actions in the preparation phase still are considered preventative measures, the time available to implement them may be more limited than during the planning stage. Regardless of missed planning opportunities, preparation efforts still are more affordable than emergency responses and can optimize outage and recovery timelines.

Focus on Low-Cost, High-Impact Strategies

There are cost-effective, high-impact preparation measures such as deploying sandbags to strategically re-route stormwater in flood-prone areas. Monitor the storm's progress and adjust the response as necessary. Prepare field crews for potential rapid deployment and extended work hours.

Coordinate with Other Stakeholders

To protect inhabitants of the service area, it's critical to cooperate with the federal, state and/or local emergency management departments and collaborate to prepare a customized, comprehensive plan. These public safety officials have the authority in all jurisdictions to enforce evacuations, and it's essential for all stakeholders (including other utilities, law enforcement, transit agencies, and local businesses) to follow their instructions in disaster situations. The emergency management department has planned for the worst-case scenario (such as a downed power line over a major road) and developed redundant evacuation routes to get people out of harm's way. Make sure personnel are informed on the latest version of this plan. Prepare a procedure on how to communicate real-time hazard updates and outages with customers and other affected stakeholders.

Step 3. Respond

Much like planning and preparation, response and recoverysometimes are seen as interchangeable, but the distinction in this context is important. Response refers to actions taken during and immediately after a natural disaster, while recovery refers to the more long-term efforts to get a community back on its feet. With aging infrastructure plaguing virtually every service provider, the possibility of failure is looming. The planning and preparedness phases are critical for increasing the resilience of these systems, and those pre-disaster phases should inform response and recovery activities when facing the threat of a system failure.

Prioritize the Three Ps: People, Property and Prevention

Response efforts include protecting people, protecting property, and preventing the situation from escalating. Even if the customer has been evacuated from the service area, the hazards aren't gone. A damage assessment and triage of district assets needs to be completed to identify and immediately address live electrical wires, damaged substations and fallen poles. Damage assessments can be completed by personnel on foot, by vehicle, through remote-enabled technology such as drones, or a combination of these methods. Energy utilities benefit from employing either in-house or external damage assessment professionals that can be mobilized immediately after a natural disaster.

Safely Repair Assets and Restore Services

Restoration of the power grid continues to be important in the response phase. To ensure a complete restoration of operations, deploy crews for repair and replacements as necessary. Conduct adequate testing of repaired equipment and infrastructure before restoring to full operation.

Case Study: Supporting Utilities Through the Biggest Storms of Our Generation

In early 2023, Winter Storm Mara had widespread impacts from Texas to Tennessee – causing more than 150,000 systemwide power outages. A local energy utility hired Bird Electric, a Black & Veatch company, as an outside contractor to augment their ongoing power restoration efforts. The utility historically hadn't needed to request external contractor support, but the unprecedented scale of these outages and post-storm conditions of ice and fallen trees called for special expertise. Bird Electric provided essential equipment and placed more than 1,000 full-time employees in the field. Coordinating a vast number of outside resources resulted in various logistical challenges, but Bird Electric was able to expedite crew onboarding and resource allocation – enabling safe and timely restoration of power for the affected community.

Step 4. Recover

Recovery encompasses long-term and future-focused efforts to restore damaged grid infrastructure and get the community back to“business as usual.” These recovery efforts could take months, years or even decades depending on the severity of the disaster and the region's level of resiliency. Mitigation activities should be considered while conducting recovery efforts, to increase resiliency and ensure that future disasters do not repeat the same damage to infrastructure.

Leverage Applicable Funding

If an organization is eligible, the recovery phase presents an opportunity when federal funding may become of greater interest. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) provides funding for new and existing programs related to storm resiliency and response. Even with billions of dollars on the table, it can be challenging for energy utilities to navigate the funding available for recovery efforts and the complex requirements. Consider working with an expert consultant partner that specializes in getting the most out of federal grant dollars.

Return to Step 1: Continuous Improvement to Break the Cycle of Devastation

The recovery phase builds upon all the previous steps: planning from years prior, preparation from just before the storm, and damages remaining after the initial response. Although recovery is the“final” step in this context, this is actually where the resiliency journey makes a full circle back to the planning phase. Reflecting on lessons learned and continuously improving the resiliency plan is essential to prevent history from repeating itself.

Next Steps: Collaborate with an Expert Advisory Partner to Guide Your Resiliency Journey

Storm-related dangers are only increasing in severity. Half of all U.S. states will be in the top 5% most at-risk locations in the world by 2050. Many grid systems are built upon aging infrastructure and are at risk of catastrophic failure. Many energy utilities haven't been able to make upgrades due to complicated funding qualifications or uncertainty about the best path forward. Fortunately, expert advisory partners are available to help utilities navigate all the complexities of developing a robust and comprehensive storm resiliency strategy.

At the end of the day, the core mission is to ensure uninterrupted power for customers, regardless of the challenges posed by nature. Although all four of these steps -- plan, prepare, respond and recover -- are important, planning cultivates the biggest opportunity to mitigate risk and bolster resiliency. Mapping out resilience before critical infrastructure is even built is ideal. Collaborating with a design-build expert that offers a full suite of engineering, construction, management, funding advisory, and storm readiness services can provide numerous advantages for both new and existing assets. By partnering with a company that offers all these capabilities in-house, providers can benefit from a streamlined process that ensures continuity and consistency throughout the project lifecycle. This approach can help to optimize project outcomes, reduce delays and budget overruns, and ensure that assets are well-equipped to withstand natural disasters and other disruptive events.

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The city can also inform citizens about the storm's effects, necessary precautions, and available resources through public awareness campaigns, which can be developed using clear goals, analyzing audience demographics, and creating new channels.

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Content: Events, crises, conflicts and conflicts expected, repeated and sudden, and disasters that afflict the world announce the birth of the forces of nature as a pivotal player for the future world order, changing the concept of power in international relations and turning climate change and its repercussions into an undisputed world power.
Events and conflicts need to harness the fine art of persuasive messages, emotional appeals, storytelling to mobilize empathy and solidarity, require speakers and messages that touch the surface of consciousness of the individual in society, resonate with the basic psychological currents that drive human behavior, campaigns not only designed to be seen or heard, but through highly advanced technologies as the most important tools of countries to manage catastrophic events. The rich fabric of human emotion to mobilize audiences towards a predetermined destination, whether it is to stimulate public opinion, change the recipient ’ s habits and behavior, generate loyalty to a system or value, and create stories that correspond to the deeper values and motivations of the audience with different orientations and data.
At its core, public impact strategy revolves around recognizing the complex, often unconscious, factors that influence our daily choices, and manipulating them skillfully beyond transactions to create truly transformative interaction. This strategic approach elevates public relations to a technical level that not only communicates with the public institutionally, but also on a self-contained level as part of a crisis management team.
Creating an integrated program to influence public opinion and thus public mood and create a media phenomenon requires setting clear and measurable goals for the media phenomenon they wish to create, analyzing the audience in terms of searching for the audience, dividing it into segments based on demographics, psychological characteristics and media consumption habits. (traditional and digital), and even create new channels to reach the audience and make their opinion part of the creation of content, and the audience itself distributes it along with the official distribution.
A number of studies have been conducted in different communities to highlight how countries are using media and public opinion strategies to influence the public, such as the public relations strategy used by the US government to announce recovery efforts after Hurricane Maria destroyed Puerto Rico ’ s infrastructure, and its role in providing critical infrastructure, such as 300 power generators to help redevelop Puerto Rico, and amateur and professional photography to illustrate the government ’ s recovery efforts. This is not to mention drone video footage and visual documentation, which is a necessity to tell stories and show the impact of efforts, and to hire experts and make them available to interview, comment on procedures and give advice and guidance.
The campaign carried out more than 500 media presentations and used targeted media lists, which resulted in the publication of more than 300 news stories through major and subsidiary news outlets, and the involvement of all social media channels to deliver the message positively. The campaign achieved coverage of more than 665 million media impressions and significant participation from different countries, amplifying the efforts of the US administration and telling compelling stories in a public relations campaign to direct the attention of the national issue....
There are countless campaigns in different countries of the world that differ in terms of the quality of publication and content, the use of non-random scientific methodology away from media panic and dwarfing the importance of psychology professionals dealing with the consequences of disasters before, during and after their occurrence, and specialists in media psychology, which I can almost confirm that they are not in the arsenal of any country that is not advanced in the thought of crisis management and disaster risk.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

Overall, understanding the potential impacts of Saharan dust storms on San Antonio and taking proactive measures to prepare for and respond to these events can help minimize the negative effects and ensure the city's resilience.

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Content: Hurricane Killer? Here are some things you may not know about Saharan dust

Dust from Africa moves across the Atlantic every year from late spring to early fall

It’s a common visitor in the summer months: dust from the Saharan Desert. Hazy skies and occasional allergies are common issues caused by the dust. But did you know that this layer of dust is more interesting than it appears? Here are some things you may not know about Saharan dust:

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Millions of tons of dust are transported across the Atlantic every year
  • Nutrient-rich Saharan dust plays a crucial role in the global ecosystem
  • Dust suppresses hurricane development

WHOLE LOTTA DUST!

Every year, from late spring to early fall, trade winds transport 180 million tons of dust from the Saharan Desert across the Atlantic Ocean. Impressively, that’s as much as 4.5 million 18-wheelers full of dust!

NATURE’S BEST FRIEND

Saharan dust is often rich in nutrients like iron and phosphorus. As the dust settles over the ocean, it fertilizes algae and plankton, allowing them to grow and flourish in an otherwise barren environment. These organisms are vital sources of food for ocean life.

Similarly, as the dust settles over land, areas like the Amazon rainforest benefit from the extra nutrients.

HURRICANE EXTINGUISHER

The African dust that moves across the Atlantic Ocean is also called the Saharan Air Layer (SAL). The SAL occurs in waves at the same time as Atlantic hurricane season, from June through November.

It’s known that the SAL limits hurricane development and strength. This is because tropical storms like hurricanes need deep, rich moisture from the surface to the top of the atmosphere to survive. Since the air carrying Saharan dust is usually dry, it can prevent storms from forming and suppress existing storms from growing and strengthening.

DUST’S IMPACT ON TEXAS

While a dense plume of dust sometimes causes minor allergy-like symptoms for some, the most noticeable impact is on Texas skies. A haze often forms on the horizon, giving an ordinarily clear, blue sky a milky hue during the day.

At sunrise and sunset, the horizon can appear brilliantly orange because, with dust in the air, sunlight has more particles to bounce off.

About the Author

Sarah Spivey is a San Antonio native who grew up watching KSAT. She has been a proud member of the KSAT Weather Authority Team since 2017. Sarah is a Clark High School and Texas A&M University graduate. She previously worked at KTEN News. When Sarah is not busy forecasting, she enjoys hanging out with her husband and cat, and playing music.

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The city's air quality can be affected by Saharan dust storms, which can exacerbate respiratory illnesses like asthma and COPD, and worsen air quality levels.

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San Antonians may want to stay indoors next week. Here's why.

A noticeable change in the air will arrive to the Alamo City next week.

SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio skies could look quite different next week but not in the way we're hoping for.

As San Antonians eagerly wait for rain to break our triple-digit temperatures another common occurrence will pick-up next week known as Saharan dust.

The dust is a combination of sand and dust traveling from North Africa across the Atlantic that peaking in late June through mid-August.

Light amounts of Saharan dust have arrived to the Alamo City this past week but will become more noticeable. Therefore, if you have asthma, COPD or any other type of respiratory illness you will want to stay indoors as much as possible during this time.

Timing of Saharan dust:

Monday - Little changes will be in the forecast as heavier amounts of dust remain over the gulf coast.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

Tuesday - A large moderate level of Saharan dust will move into South Texas and San Antonio by late afternoon. San Antonians may notice hazy skies and trouble breathing if you're more sensitive to dusty air. But the dust doesn't stop here.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

Wednesday - By mid-week Saharan dust ramps up continuing to build and push farther north stretching to the Dallas area. The continuing flow of the dust is partly due to a high pressure bringing a southeasterly flow to help pump the dust toward South Texas.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

Thursday - As the week progresses dust levels continue to rise and could affect air quality levels. For those with any respiratory illnesses they should avoid outdoor activity including vigorous exercise. Also try to keep windows and doors closed. We will continue to monitor this development next week.

Credit: KENS 5 Weather

As dust increases across the area, San Antonians will notice more vibrant sunrises and sunsets. However, during the afternoons the sky appears a more milky white color.

Before You Leave, Check This Out

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

People with lung diseases should take precautions during dust storms, such as wearing particle-retaining masks, and staying indoors to minimize the risk of exacerbating their condition.

Title:

Content: Dust storm from Sahara to hit Türkiye

Dust storm from Sahara to hit Türkiye

İZMİR

A massive dust storm from the Sahara Desert is expected to shroud the country, with experts warning citizens, especially those with respiratory disorders, to take precautions.

Professor Dr. Doğan Yaşar, a climate scientist, cautioned that a period of intense dust transport will begin on March 25.

"Red-colored desert dust laden with iron particles will arrive in large quantities," he explained.

"While this dust fertilizes the soil and benefits agriculture, it can also trigger allergy symptoms like dry cough and sneezing, especially for people with asthma or other lung conditions,” he said.

Yaşar emphasized the importance of wearing masks during this period. "People with lung diseases should wear a particle-retaining mask for three weeks, if possible," he advised. "Regular masks can offer some protection as well."

"A single pine tree produces 12 billion pollen. Thus, during this period, pollen multiplies very intensively in the air. When we inhale this, we experience discomfort. It is especially dangerous for people with lung diseases such as asthma," he added.

The dust storm is a natural phenomenon that occurs annually, transporting around two billion tons of dust from the Sahara to various parts of the world. The professor highlighted the ecological benefits of this dust, which acts as a natural fertilizer. However, he cautions that the concentrated dust can irritate airways and exacerbate allergies.

While the dust storm may cause temporary inconveniences, Yaşar reassured citizens that there's no need for alarm.

"The dust benefits agriculture, but it's important to be aware of the potential health risks, especially for those with respiratory problems," he concluded.

dust storms, Türkiye,

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The city's traffic may be impacted by low-visibility conditions caused by dust storms, and measures such as slowing down, using headlights and fog lights, and avoiding sudden breaks or acceleration can help mitigate the risks associated with low-visibility conditions.

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NRSA urges precaution in road usage amid current weather conditions

National Road Safety Authority (NRSA)

Fri, 9 Feb 2024 Source: www.ghanaweb.live

National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has issued a call for increased precautions in road usage to avert accidents. This is in response to the current shift in weather patterns marked by dry and dusty winds.

Emphasizing the reduced visibility caused by dust in the air during such weather conditions, the NRSA stressed the need for heightened awareness to prevent crashes. Motorists have been advised to adjust their driving behavior by slowing down, maintaining caution, and using headlights and fog lights for improved visibility.

“Use the headlights and fog lights if necessary to improve visibility; avoid sudden breaks or acceleration; take note of traffic and construction signs; use the right edge of the road as a guide; keep windows and mirrors clean; avoid excessive speeding and avoid unnecessary overtaking.”

The authority also recommended measures like keeping a safe distance, adhering to traffic signs, and utilizing advance warning triangles. Additionally, pedestrians were urged to wear reflective clothing, and owners of broken-down vehicles were reminded to promptly remove them from the roads.

“Drivers are also advised to practice the use of advance warning triangles and place them at a distance not less than 45 meters away from the vehicle; pedestrians are advised to wear reflective clothing to improve visibility to reduce the risk of getting knocked down by a vehicle; owners of broken-down vehicles must ensure their vehicles are towed from the roads within the stipulated time and pedestrians are also urged to be cautious while walking along the road during this season,” NRSA stated.

Source: www.ghanaweb.live

What are the negative effects of Saharan dust storm on infrastructure?

The city's power grid can be impacted by dust storms, and measures such as modernizing power systems, expanding infrastructure, and transitioning to renewable energy sources can help reduce the vulnerability of the power grid to natural disasters.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

The city can also take measures to support citizens with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as providing masks, developing a comprehensive hazard mitigation plan, and evaluating weather-related risks.

How can people protect their health during Saharan dust storms?

The economic impacts of Saharan dust storms on San Antonio's businesses and industries can be significant, with potential losses in the hundreds of millions of dollars.

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

The global cost of dust and sand storms is estimated to be around $3.6 trillion, and the Middle East and North Africa region loses $150 billion annually.

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What is happening in Iraq in 2050?
The Middle Eastern threat no one talks about.
Category: Reports and Analysis
Date: 2022-05-30T20: 29: 58 + 0000
The Israeli newspaper "Haaretz" warned of the world's disregard for the phenomenon of sand storms in the Middle East, especially in Iraq, which causes economic losses of billions of dollars, and health damage to thousands of citizens, pointing out that this phenomenon is likely to increase significantly in the coming years.
After the newspaper pointed out in a report translated by the agency Shafaq News; that the sand storms in the Middle East are ignored by the world compared to other types of natural disasters, and thus ignore the increasing impact on the health of people and the economy of the region.
The report compared the scenes of the storm in Iraq with the scenes known as in the United States, saying that you are in the midst of a winter storm in an American city, where cars are slowly moving through the streets, and their headlights light light in the middle of the day, as if crossing a layer of snow, but adds that the place is already in Baghdad amid temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, and that the streets were not covered by white snow, but orange color of sand and dust. A Air, noting that there were similar scenes recorded in Iran, eastern Syria and most of the Gulf countries.
The report noted that sandstorms usually hit Iraq during the spring months.
But he added that the storm is the tenth since the beginning of April, an average of one a week, adding that it is a phenomenon that is growing in size and severity in recent years and is expected to worsen in the coming years.
In Iraq, nearly 1,000 people have been hospitalized for respiratory problems, the government has declared a holiday to urge people to stay home, and many airports have been closed.
The report also warned that the economic and health consequences of sandstorms have not been studied in the same way as specific studies of the effects of other natural disasters.
Oxford University academic Nick Middleton, who co-authored one of the first research studies on the issue, said the costs were too high: "Dust storms can affect tens of millions of people and have an economic impact of hundreds of millions of dollars."
Middleton said the link between health problems and sandstorms was not always clear, but it could be "enormous", adding: "There are strong links between dusty days, respiratory problems and some heart disease."
But one of the few estimates available on the economic costs of dust storms, from the World Bank, reported in 2019, is that the global cost of dust and sand storms increased by 63% between 1990 and 2013 to reach $3.6 trillion.
In the Middle East and North Africa, it increased by 123% to $141 billion.
This estimate reflects losses to the economy as a result of premature deaths due to excessive exposure to dust.
Since 2013, it has suffered an estimated 10,400 premature deaths from dust, costing the economy $15 billion, or 2.9% of GDP.
Among the direct costs are losses due to closed airports, crop losses and production disruptions, as well as government holidays, estimated by the World Bank at about $13 billion, which means that the total cost of losses in the Middle East and North Africa region from sandstorms exceeds $150 billion annually.
Orange Warning
The Iraqi Ministry of Environment monitored 122 dust storms and 283 dusty days during 2013 alone, but an official at the Ministry of Environment warned last month that Iraq may suffer 272 days of sand storms as an annual average over the next two decades, which could increase to more than 300 days by 2050.
In his paper, titled “The Comprehensive Causes and Socio-Economic Consequences of a Sharp Dust Storm in the Middle East, ” Middleton documented the fallout from a particularly large sandstorm in early April 2015 that hit an area of 10 million square kilometers, including Iraq, Iran and the Gulf, stretching east as far as India and the Red Sea to the west.
The storm forced officials to close schools in Qatar and parts of Saudi Arabia that had been declared a holiday for workers, Saudi and Iranian ports disrupted operations, and forced airports in seven countries to delay, reroute or cancel flights.
Open space construction has also stopped in the UAE, and Abu Dhabi cancelled the Desert Challenge because visibility was almost zero, and even solar plants stopped working due to the accumulation of too much dust on the panels.
According to the study, traffic accidents have increased in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE, and cases of respiratory patients in hospitals have increased.
Israel is not immune to dust storms, though it does not suffer from any of the same severe pattern as Iraq and other neighboring countries.
The report pointed out that the phenomenon of climate change is responsible for the increase of these extreme weather events, but experts say that climate change is only one of the factors, but it will have a greater impact in the coming years because it causes increased desertification and more severe drought, pointing out that the sources of dust and sand storms are mainly due to natural and not man-made factors, but these factors are exacerbated by human activity.
Poor land management makes the soil unprotected after the harvest season, and wars have caused farmers to abandon their fields, creating large tracts of land where the wind can easily carry dust.
Population growth and urban sprawl are also reducing areas that previously contained plants that protected the soil.
In addition, large bodies of water have been affected by drought, such as the Aral Sea between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, and Lake Urmia in Iran, once the largest lake in the Middle East.
Dam construction projects have also drained rivers and reduced water flows to the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, with Saddam Hussein even playing a role in draining the marshes in the south.
Some scientists also believe that La Niña weather phenomenon may have contributed to the recent spike in dust storms in the Middle East.
Panfsha Kenoush, a researcher at the Middle East Institute in Washington, questioned whether Middle East governments were willing to make a major effort to address the problem, explaining that "sand and dust storms are often seen in the Gulf region as largely uncontrollable natural phenomena."
Some measures have been taken by governments in the region, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pledging to plant 10 billion trees in Saudi Arabia and an additional 40 billion in the region to combat sandstorms and desertification.
In 2016, an institute in the UAE launched a dust storm forecasting system that countries in the region can use to prepare for major storms.
But Middleton admits that even if governments work together, fighting sandstorms will not be easy, but he added that they could at least mitigate their effects and address the local factors that make sandstorms worse.
Translated by: Shafaq News
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However, the specific economic impacts of Saharan dust storms on San Antonio's businesses and industries are not available in the provided context.

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

To mitigate the effects of dust storms, businesses and industries in San Antonio can provide masks to employees and customers, invest in renewable energy sources, and implement environmental regulations and awareness.

How can people protect their health during Saharan dust storms?

Green initiatives can also help mitigate desertification effects, and Sub-Saharan Africa is a main contributor to global dust storms.

In terms of public awareness campaigns, the city can develop clear goals, analyze audience demographics, and create new channels to reach a wider audience and deliver a message positively.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

Measuring media impressions can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of public awareness campaigns, and hiring experts for interviews and advice can provide valuable insights.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

Targeted media lists can result in significant coverage, and visual documentation is necessary to show the impact of public awareness campaigns.

The city can also use social media channels to deliver messages positively and provide important information, such as warning of potential weather hazards, to help citizens prepare for and respond to storms.

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Content: Friday, 30 Safar 1445, 15 September 2023
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Important clarification from the "Meteorological" on the impact of the Kingdom of the tropical situation in the Arabian Sea
A-A.
The National Center of Meteorology confirmed that it is monitoring the preliminary indicators of the possibility of a tropical state in the Arabian Sea during the next week.
The center said that the expectations indicate that, God willing, the atmosphere of the Kingdom will not be affected by this situation directly.
The kingdom was affected by hurricanes.
The National Center of Meteorology issued a clarification on Thursday on the direct impact of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on hurricanes, earthquakes and floods that hit various areas of the Arab world.
Add Announcement
The spokesman of the center said that all the news about the direct impact of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by hurricanes is incorrect and only exceeds the media excitement.
He explained that the Kingdom overlooks semi-closed seas that do not form tropical cyclones and their direct impact is not possible, God willing.
He stressed the need to obtain information about this matter through official channels and the publications and warnings issued by the Center around the clock.
Launching the “What I Expected ” Campaign
The National Center of Meteorology launched on Thursday, at its headquarters in Jeddah, the "What I expected" media campaign to raise awareness of the importance of meteorology in our daily lives.
Objectives of the campaign
The campaign comes to the need to continuously monitor the weather situation to prevent the risks caused by sudden weather changes, with the participation of 35 government and private entities, in order to:
1. Raising public awareness of the importance of monitoring weather forecasts.
2. Provide guidance and advice for proper management in case of bad weather.
3. Understand the risks of sudden weather changes and enhance public safety by warning of potential weather hazards.
Promoting a culture of readiness for change
It seeks to promote a culture of preparedness for sudden weather changes, instil a spirit of cooperation and solidarity in the community to meet the challenges resulting from sudden weather changes, and encourage the use of weather technology and applications to follow weather forecasts and receive early warnings.
The importance of the campaign is that it is an initiative that uses a strategy of suspense to attract attention and raise awareness of the weather hazards, and the participation of all segments of society in this campaign will have many benefits.
Most Read

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

public awareness & education
implement a warning system

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the Americas have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

What areas of the US have been affected by Saharan dust storms?

The city can develop public awareness campaigns to inform citizens about the storm's effects, necessary precautions, and available resources, and take measures to support citizens with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

The city can also take measures to mitigate the economic impacts of dust storms on businesses and industries, such as providing masks, investing in renewable energy sources, and implementing environmental regulations and awareness.

How can people protect their health during Saharan dust storms?

By taking a proactive and comprehensive approach, the city can reduce the risks associated with Saharan dust storms and ensure the health, safety, and well-being of its citizens.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?