Saharan dust storms originate from the Sahara Desert in North Africa and annually transport vast quantities of dust—about 180 million tons—across the Atlantic Ocean, reaching parts of the Americas, including the southern U.S., Gulf Coast, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.

These dust events primarily occur from late spring through early fall, peaking from late June into mid-August, often influencing states like Texas and cities such as San Antonio and Houston

[958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 847379b8-aea2-4369-b4fb-37b79f3e9753_449770659; 5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364].

Meteorologically, Saharan dust is associated with the Saharan Air Layer (SAL), a dry, dust-laden air mass that suppresses cloud formation and thunderstorm activity due to having around 50% less moisture than typical atmospheric conditions.

This dry air tends to reduce tropical cyclone and hurricane formation in the Atlantic basin during the hurricane season, acting as a “hurricane killer” by limiting moisture necessary for storm development [976e5a88-b9d0-4613-be71-b666fa22d6f3_776351012; 847379b8-aea2-4369-b4fb-37b79f3e9753_449770659; 270add43-f80a-4e9c-b485-5fe6a47a33f4_186258722].

For San Antonio, incoming dust storms frequently bring hazy skies with the daylight horizon taking on a milky white color and vibrant orange hues during sunrise and sunset due to light scattering by dust particles

[847379b8-aea2-4369-b4fb-37b79f3e9753_449770659; 5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364].

In terms of air quality, Saharan dust significantly increases particulate matter concentrations (notably PM10 and PM2.5), which can exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma, COPD, allergies, and cardiovascular problems especially in vulnerable populations (children, elderly, those with preexisting respiratory conditions).

The dust also carries microbial life—bacteria and fungi, some potentially pathogenic—though direct infection risks remain uncertain.

Nonetheless, increased respiratory-related emergency visits coincide with dust events, necessitating public health advisories during these times [958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364].

Regarding the power grid and traffic, Saharan dust storms can reduce visibility leading to cautionary driving advisories and increased traffic safety risks in dust-affected regions.

Visibility reduction has been documented, necessitating warnings to motorists.

Moreover, dust settling on solar panels and infrastructure can reduce efficiency and increase maintenance needs.

Power grids may face strain indirectly due to increased demand if temperatures remain high or air quality worsens, but explicit documented cases of grid failures linked solely to dust storm events in Texas are limited.

Vehicle surfaces also require careful cleaning to avoid damage from abrasive dust residues [1fd604e6-30ba-4b91-b53c-ecb5241f2624_55169144; 2060cd19-2a64-4537-987d-dc20f718a8a9_701635911].

Positive impacts include the fertilization of distant ecosystems due to nutrient-rich dust deposition, delivering minerals like phosphorus and calcium that support marine phytoplankton growth and terrestrial environments such as the Amazon rainforest.

These nutrients stimulate the base of food chains in oceans and support biodiversity.

Saharan dust also plays a role in climate regulation by reflecting sunlight and cooling the Earth’s surface.

However, excessive deposition can damage sensitive ecosystems, such as coral reefs, by impairing photosynthesis [958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 847379b8-aea2-4369-b4fb-37b79f3e9753_449770659].

Climate change appears to be increasing the frequency and intensity of Saharan dust storms by altering atmospheric circulation patterns and dryness, potentially leading to larger and more persistent dust events over North America, including Texas [958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 50d87ec4-a0eb-47cd-a83b-2ea65776e64d_46679155].

To prepare and mitigate impacts in San Antonio, recommended practices include issuing public health advisories emphasizing stay-indoors guidance for vulnerable groups during peak dust periods, advising against outdoor vigorous physical activity, and encouraging residents to keep windows and doors closed to reduce indoor dust infiltration.

Traffic safety warnings should be disseminated to reduce accidents caused by reduced visibility.

For the power sector, proactive maintenance to keep solar panels and electrical infrastructure clean can prevent efficiency losses.

Community awareness campaigns about the health risks and environmental impacts are essential.

Monitoring local air quality indices and linking these with meteorological predictions allows timely alerts.

Medical services should prepare for increased respiratory cases during dust events.

Long-term urban planning could consider green infrastructure to help filter airborne particulates

[5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364; 958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 1fd604e6-30ba-4b91-b53c-ecb5241f2624_55169144].

In summary, Saharan dust storms can lead to transient haze, reduced air quality, minor temperature moderation through solar reflectance, and suppression of tropical storm formation.

These events have direct health impacts, especially on sensitive individuals, and cause visibility and infrastructure challenges.

However, they also contribute vital nutrients to ecosystems beyond their origin.

For San Antonio, immediate response should focus on protecting respiratory health, managing traffic safety, and maintaining critical infrastructure during dust episodes, with anticipatory public communication based on forecasts of Saharan dust arrivals [958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364; 976e5a88-b9d0-4613-be71-b666fa22d6f3_776351012].

Saharan dust storms originate from the Sahara Desert in North Africa and annually transport vast quantities of dust—about 180 million tons—across the Atlantic Ocean, reaching parts of the Americas, including the southern U.S., Gulf Coast, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.

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.

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

These dust events primarily occur from late spring through early fall, peaking from late June into mid-August, often influencing states like Texas and cities such as San Antonio and Houston

Title:

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.

Recommended Videos

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

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

[958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 847379b8-aea2-4369-b4fb-37b79f3e9753_449770659; 5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364].

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.

—–

Like what you read? Subscribe to our newsletter for engaging articles, exclusive content, and the latest updates.

Check us out on EarthSnap, a free app brought to you by Eric Ralls and Earth.com.

—–

News coming your way
The biggest news about our planet delivered to you each day

Meteorologically, Saharan dust is associated with the Saharan Air Layer (SAL), a dry, dust-laden air mass that suppresses cloud formation and thunderstorm activity due to having around 50% less moisture than typical atmospheric conditions.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

This dry air tends to reduce tropical cyclone and hurricane formation in the Atlantic basin during the hurricane season, acting as a “hurricane killer” by limiting moisture necessary for storm development [976e5a88-b9d0-4613-be71-b666fa22d6f3_776351012; 847379b8-aea2-4369-b4fb-37b79f3e9753_449770659; 270add43-f80a-4e9c-b485-5fe6a47a33f4_186258722].

Title:

Content: Hurricane center begins tracking a system in the Caribbean

·2 min read

ORLANDO, Fla. — The National Hurricane Center has been jumping around the last few days tracking short-lived systems with the potential to form into a tropical depression or storm. Late Monday, the NHC began looking at the Caribbean Sea.

As of the NHC’s 8 p.m. Eastern time tropical update, a tropical wave located in the central Caribbean is forecast to move across Central America and emerge over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico where it could develop into the season’s next named system.

“Some gradual development of this system is possible thereafter as it moves slowly to the northwest or north-northwest over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico by this weekend,” said NHC hurricane specialist Philippe Papin.

The NHC gives the system a 20% chance of formation in the next five days.

The Caribbean system follows the NHC keeping track of a broad trough of low pressure in the mid-Atlantic late Sunday, but its chances of formation dropped to 0% by Monday morning. Over the weekend, the NHC tracked a system in the Gulf of Mexico, but it failed to form into more than a spate of showers and thunderstorms that drenched southeastern Texas. Before that, a system off the African coast showed some signs of development before environmental factors snuffed its chances.

Part of the reason for what prevents tropical storm development is the dry conditions in the Atlantic. A large migration of African dust, the Saharan Air Layer, or SAL, is the main reason tropical moisture isn’t at the ideal level for development. Large dust plumes are still pushing west of Africa and into the Caribbean, preventing the Atlantic basin from becoming a hurricane nursery, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s SAL forecast shows.

Hurricane season is approaching its peak, which runs from mid-August to mid-October, with Sept. 10 recorded as the statistically most productive day of storms in the tropics.

So far, the 2022 season has seen three named storms: Alex, Bonnie and Colin. Based on historical averages, the fourth named storm of the year typically appears by Aug. 15. If a system were to emerge, it would receive the name Danielle.

Last week, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reaffirmed its preseason prediction of an above-average hurricane season with a range of 14 to 21 named storms. The NOAA expects most of those storms to emerge at the peak of the season.

Hurricane season ends on Nov. 30.

———

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

For San Antonio, incoming dust storms frequently bring hazy skies with the daylight horizon taking on a milky white color and vibrant orange hues during sunrise and sunset due to light scattering by dust particles

Title:

Content: Breaking News
More () »

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

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

[847379b8-aea2-4369-b4fb-37b79f3e9753_449770659; 5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364].

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.

Loading...

In terms of air quality, Saharan dust significantly increases particulate matter concentrations (notably PM10 and PM2.5), which can exacerbate respiratory issues such as asthma, COPD, allergies, and cardiovascular problems especially in vulnerable populations (children, elderly, those with preexisting respiratory conditions).

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

cardiovascular diseases
respiratory issues
allergies

The dust also carries microbial life—bacteria and fungi, some potentially pathogenic—though direct infection risks remain uncertain.

Nonetheless, increased respiratory-related emergency visits coincide with dust events, necessitating public health advisories during these times [958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364].

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

implement a warning system
health facilities readiness
public awareness & education

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

Regarding the power grid and traffic, Saharan dust storms can reduce visibility leading to cautionary driving advisories and increased traffic safety risks in dust-affected regions.

Title:

Content: Motorists are being warned of a potential threat to vehicles as weather maps indicate that a sizzling 'Saharan Plume' is approaching. The UK has so far experienced a week of wet and windy conditions, but hope is in sight for those seeking sunnier spells, as the temperatures are forecast to rise in the coming days.

Despite a week plagued by unpredictable weather, characterised by muggy temperatures and frequent rainfall, next week's forecasts hint at an upturn. From Sunday May 19 to Tuesday May 21, it's predicted we'll see a return of balmy temperatures and plenty of sunshine, making way for a potentially splendid half term break.

Predictions suggest the best of the weather will shine on the Midlands, Northeast England and Yorkshire, where certain regions are anticipated to bask in highs of around 23C.

Things are set to heat up even further come May 26, with London, the southeast and the south coast potentially seeing mercury levels touch a sweltering 24C. Meanwhile, the rest of the country is expected to stay comfortably above 20C.

Netweather reports that most of England can look forward to temperatures hovering between 22C and 24C. While a bit cooler, Wales will still have some spots surpassing 20C, with Northern Ireland showing a similar trend, reports the Mirror.

Adding their input, the Met Office has issued its own forecast for the upcoming week. Their prognosis for May 19 to May 28 is characterised as "changeable", with temperatures predicted to be "generally around or just above average."

The current forecast indicates: "Temperatures will be generally around or just a little above average. With winds tending to be light, it will feel warm in sunnier areas. As we head further into the following week, confidence lowers into the following week. On balance, a continuation of the showers in the south seems most likely, with the north continuing to see the best of any drier weather. Temperatures will probably remain a little above average."

There's growing speculation about another Saharan plume potentially warming up the UK soon. While the prospect of warmer weather might be welcome, it's important to note that such conditions can also pose risks to both people and vehicles.

One significant hazard associated with a Saharan plume is the dust it carries, which recently wreaked havoc across mainland Europe last month. This natural occurrence enchanted many with its hazy skies and vibrant sunsets, yet it also escalated air pollution levels, surpassing some of the European Union's safety thresholds in various regions, including popular vacation destination Spain.

In southern and eastern parts of the country, residents experienced air quality that was four times over the healthy limit for PM10 particle contamination, posing a particular threat to individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma.

The Saharan dust also poses a risk to vehicles, as the thin layer of dust that typically settles on cars after desert weather can scratch paintwork and windows if not properly removed. To safely clean off the dust without causing damage, motorists are advised not to rub or wipe the dust away, but to thoroughly rinse their vehicle first, ideally using a pre-wash, followed by a snow foam soak and a thorough rinse.

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

Visibility reduction has been documented, necessitating warnings to motorists.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

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

Moreover, dust settling on solar panels and infrastructure can reduce efficiency and increase maintenance needs.

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

Power grids may face strain indirectly due to increased demand if temperatures remain high or air quality worsens, but explicit documented cases of grid failures linked solely to dust storm events in Texas are limited.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

Vehicle surfaces also require careful cleaning to avoid damage from abrasive dust residues [1fd604e6-30ba-4b91-b53c-ecb5241f2624_55169144; 2060cd19-2a64-4537-987d-dc20f718a8a9_701635911].

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

Positive impacts include the fertilization of distant ecosystems due to nutrient-rich dust deposition, delivering minerals like phosphorus and calcium that support marine phytoplankton growth and terrestrial environments such as the Amazon rainforest.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

delivers essential minerals for phytoplankton

carries microorganisms and nutrients that act as fertilizer

These nutrients stimulate the base of food chains in oceans and support biodiversity.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

delivers essential minerals for phytoplankton

carries microorganisms and nutrients that act as fertilizer

Saharan dust also plays a role in climate regulation by reflecting sunlight and cooling the Earth’s surface.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

cools the Earth's atmosphere
reflects sunlight back into space

However, excessive deposition can damage sensitive ecosystems, such as coral reefs, by impairing photosynthesis [958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 847379b8-aea2-4369-b4fb-37b79f3e9753_449770659].

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

smothers coral reefs by blocking sunlight and hindering photosynthesis

Climate change appears to be increasing the frequency and intensity of Saharan dust storms by altering atmospheric circulation patterns and dryness, potentially leading to larger and more persistent dust events over North America, including Texas [958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 50d87ec4-a0eb-47cd-a83b-2ea65776e64d_46679155].

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

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

To prepare and mitigate impacts in San Antonio, recommended practices include issuing public health advisories emphasizing stay-indoors guidance for vulnerable groups during peak dust periods, advising against outdoor vigorous physical activity, and encouraging residents to keep windows and doors closed to reduce indoor dust infiltration.

How can people protect their health during Saharan dust storms?

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What can people do to prepare for dust storms?

Traffic safety warnings should be disseminated to reduce accidents caused by reduced visibility.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

implement a warning system
public awareness & education

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

For the power sector, proactive maintenance to keep solar panels and electrical infrastructure clean can prevent efficiency losses.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

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

Community awareness campaigns about the health risks and environmental impacts are essential.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

Monitoring local air quality indices and linking these with meteorological predictions allows timely alerts.

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

Medical services should prepare for increased respiratory cases during dust events.

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?

Long-term urban planning could consider green infrastructure to help filter airborne particulates

[5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364; 958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 1fd604e6-30ba-4b91-b53c-ecb5241f2624_55169144].

In summary, Saharan dust storms can lead to transient haze, reduced air quality, minor temperature moderation through solar reflectance, and suppression of tropical storm formation.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

reduces storms
lowers air quality
makes the sky hazy

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

cools the Earth's atmosphere
reflects sunlight back into space

These events have direct health impacts, especially on sensitive individuals, and cause visibility and infrastructure challenges.

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

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

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

However, they also contribute vital nutrients to ecosystems beyond their origin.

What are the positive effects of Saharan dust on the environment?

delivers essential minerals for phytoplankton

carries microorganisms and nutrients that act as fertilizer

For San Antonio, immediate response should focus on protecting respiratory health, managing traffic safety, and maintaining critical infrastructure during dust episodes, with anticipatory public communication based on forecasts of Saharan dust arrivals [958ae1ee-19d5-41c4-8e42-0583f3ed6841_957102541; 5dc9163b-9ad8-4a82-8d61-269b3aa8f216_79048364; 976e5a88-b9d0-4613-be71-b666fa22d6f3_776351012].

How can the authorities prepare for a Saharan dust storm?

implement a warning system
public awareness & education

How does Saharan dust affect immediate weather?

What are the negative health effects of Saharan dust?

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