Saharan Dust Returns to the Island

As the yearly wave of the Saharan Dust blows over the island, Jamaicans are being urged to exercise heightened vigilance. The dust is likely to trigger respiratory illnesses, cause irritation to the eyes and may impact the quality of water. . Various bacteria particles can also be transported to the island, as a result of this episode of the Saharan Dust. 

Jamaicans are being urged to err on the side of caution as the Saharan Dust which originates from Northern Africa, plumes across the island. Its impact on Jamaica is expected to gradually increase on Saturday and Sunday, and then decrease during the start of next week. 

This spike in airborne micro-particles is known to aggravate health issues, particularly respiratory illnesses. President of the Medical Association of Jamaica, Dr. Brian James, says the particles in the Saharan Dust are so small that they can travel through our airways, and cause irritation, triggering asthma attacks and infection. He added that the dust is likely to carry micro-organisms, which can lead to various illnesses. He noted that the dust particles are also likely to get into the eyes. The Saharan Dust is characterized by hazy conditions and usually results in stable air with reduced rainfall activity.

Conditions associated with this episode of Saharan Dust are not expected to be severe; however, the meteorological service will continue to monitor its development and progress.