Irritating Saharan Dust comes to Portugal today

After the dangerous storms, Portugal prepares to receive irritating dust from the Sahara desert, North of Africa. This Saharan dust may be irritating to your airways and eyes, depending on the quantity present in the air and the duration of exposure. It should also feel warmer than usual. This happens because the dust particles in the atmosphere absorb and trap heat from the sun, increasing air temperature.

When is the Saharan Dust Coming to Portugal?

The Saharan particles should arrive today in Madeira Archipelago. The dust is expected to reach mainland Portugal tomorrow (Tuesday)

UPDATE! From the 2nd to the 3rd of March, a new wave of dust should come to Portugal. According to the maps, the vast ‘tongue’ of suspended dust will rise from the south (Algarve) to the northwest of our geography. The position and trajectory of anticyclones, depressions, and winds, could decisively influence the distribution and intensity of the Saharan dust in our region. Therefore, this forecast should be viewed with caution. The dates by which the dust will reach continental Portugal may change.

Update 2: Heavy rain is also expected on Monday and Tuesday in some regions of Portugal (especially in central Portugal and Alentejo region).

Portugal Areas affected by Saharan dust

Concentration of dust will depend on the factors mentioned above. On the 2nd of March, the regions of Alentejo and Algarve should register a higher concentration of particles. On the 3rd of March, central Portugal may experience increased dust exposure.

You may notice grey or slightly orange colored skies, more or less intense in color according to the quantity of particles in the air. Also, the dust can scatter sunlight in a way that creates a hazy sky.

If it rains, cars and laundry hanging on the clothesline may get dirty from mud rain.

Additionally, the Saharan particles affect the quality of air and therefore can be harmful to humans and pets. As a precaution, follow the recommendations by the Health Authorities.

Health Authorities Recommendations for the Saharan Dust

• Population in general should avoid prolonged physical activity.
• Avoid outside workouts.
• If possible, close windows when the concentration of particles becomes high.
• Avoid contact with irritating substances (e.g., cleaning products), as they can make the situation worse.
• Elderly, children and people with chronic diseases (such as respiratory diseases, like asthma, or cardiovascular diseases), should avoid going out. Stay inside and, if possible, with closed windows. Use a mask if you really need to go outside.
• Drink plenty of water to maintain hydration.
• If symptoms worsen, contact Linha Saúde 24 (808 24 24 24) or seek medical attention.

Our note: Pet owners are advised to limit outdoor exposure if particle concentrations are high or if their animals suffer from respiratory conditions.

Although the phenomenon of the Saharan Dust may cause temporary discomfort, it is usually short-lived and conditions are expected to improve in the coming days.