Saharan dust affects Texas air quality

Saharan Dust Reaches Texas Gulf Coast

Saharan dust is drifting across the southeastern U.S. and entered the Texas Gulf Coast early Thursday.
Fortunately for Texas, the heaviest concentrations remain farther east — along the Gulf Coast states — but the eastern half of the state, from the Texas Coast to Dallas-Fort Worth, is expected to see some of this activity.

When will Saharan dust leave Texas?

A light layer of Saharan dust is expected to begin settling over South Texas by Thursday and will drift north into the Dallas-Fort Worth area by Friday, where it will linger through the weekend. Another round may arrive early next week, though its extent remains uncertain.

What is Saharan dust?

This refers to the dust carried by winds across the Atlantic from the Sahara Desert. Thunderstorms in the Sahara region stir up dust and push it into the atmosphere. The dust is then transported across the Atlantic and deposited in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. While it primarily affects Puerto Rico, it can also reach states such as Florida and Texas.
According to the CDC, Saharan dust transported to the United States is a normal occurrence, especially from late June to mid-August.

Air Quality Index Map

You might expect colorful sunrises and sunsets, hazy afternoon skies, poor air quality, and sometimes allergy symptoms.
Although dust concentrations are not particularly high at the moment, they will still have some impact as they reach urban areas. Saharan dust will also inhibit thunderstorm development and increase daytime temperatures by keeping the skies dry and trapping heat close to the ground.

Is Saharan dust dangerous?

According to the CDC, Saharan dust can be harmful as air quality becomes poor. As particulate matter and concentration in the air increase, this can be harmful when inhaled, entering the lungs and bloodstream and affecting individuals with allergies, respiratory complications and asthma.
Among potential symptoms are:

• Allergy problems
• Skin and eye irritation
• Sore throat
• Respiratory issues
  Large particles from Sahara dust can also cause skin and eye irritation, the CDC said. It is recommended to stay inside as much as possible and avoid outdoor activities.