Saharan dust strikes again

Another round of Saharan dust concentration is present in the Caribbean region.  

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service in an Air Quality Bulletin issued on Saturday said the air quality is moderate until today due to particulate matters 2.5 and 10, associated with the 13th surge in Saharan Dust for the Country for 2024.  

The met service said the threat of health problems is medium, for mainly unusually sensitive people, such as asthmatics, and could potentially cause significant health impacts. 

In Montserrat, the Disaster Management Coordination Agency said although the air quality across Montserrat has now reduced to moderate levels; an Air Quality Alert remains firmly in place for the island today. 

Active children, adults, and people with heart or respiratory diseases, such as asthma, should limit prolonged outdoor exertion, and wear a mask and protective eyewear when going outside to avoid complications. 

Meanwhile, the St Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Service in its forecast today issued a weather advisory for persons to be alert for poor air quality due to Saharan dust haze.  

The Dominica Meteorological Service its weather outlook for today said hazy conditions are expected to continue during today. People with respiratory sensitivities are advised to take the necessary precautions to avoid complications. Fisherfolks have also been advised to use the necessary devices for safe navigation due to reduced visibility when venturing out to sea. 

The Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service in its weather forecast for today said a significant concentration of Saharan dust is present in the atmosphere. Persons sensitive to changes in air quality are advised to take the necessary precautions.  

In the British Virgin Islands, a weather update today said Saharan dust continues to reduce air quality throughout the territory at least until later tonight.  

The Meteorological Department for Sint Maarten in its forecast today said a reduction in Saharan dust is expected across the local area during the next couple of days.