Local residents are stunned by the vast cloud of Sahara dust that has blanketed the BVI and by default, the region. Characterized by hazy skies and deleterious conditions, many are now concerned that it will do more damage than anticipated.
WHAT IS IT?
According to DDM “The very dry, dusty layer of warm air occurs when a dust storm develops over Western Africa in the Sahara Desert and gets blown into the Atlantic Ocean by easterly winds.”
They said “Meteorologists have linked the presence of Saharan Air Layer (SAL) or Saharan Dust across the Atlantic Ocean, to the calm currently being experienced for the Atlantic Hurricane Season
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services, which has weather forecasting responsibilities for the BVI, explained that the dust hinders the formation of tropical cyclones by restricting the amount of moisture needed for cyclones to develop.
IS IT UNHEALTHY?
It is! The air quality has hit a dangerously “unhealthy” level for persons with respiratory issues but experts warned that even persons who are fairly healthy can be affected. Persons with allergies are especially at risk, as many have complained about itchy eyes, sneezing and even a difficulty breathing.
To mitigate becoming ill residents are advised to stay indoors if possible, with doors and windows closed.
If you are leaving the home, wearing a face mask is critical. Medical officials say this is even more important now as we’re living in an era where COVID-19 is already putting a strain on our respiratory health.
Posted by Jovan Krystal Wilson on Tuesday, June 23, 2020
WHAT DOES THE DUST MEAN FOR HURRICANE SEASON?
Despite the presence of the Saharan dust, the month of July has traditionally been a slow month during annual hurricane seasons, therefore the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) is advising residents to continue to fast track preparations.
Director of the DDM, Sharleen DaBreo stated, “Historically, August and September are peak months for hurricane activity so while the Saharan Dust is contributing to this quiet period this month (July), it cannot be used as a measure for hurricane activity for the remainder of the season”.
She added, “It is therefore imperative that everyone remain vigilant and continue to finalise preparations for the season. I know there is a tendency for persons to become relaxed when they don’t see anything happening but I strongly urge everyone to avoid complacency”.
Saharan Dust can occur throughout the hurricane season with June and July normally being the peak months for heightened activity.
The dust is estimated to leave the region by late Wednesday.
On May 27, the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration issued its forecast saying the season will “most likely be near-normal”. It predicts a 70% likelihood of ten to16 named storms of which four to eight could become hurricanes including one to four major hurricanes.