Saharan Dust Expected in Coastal Bend this Week

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX - The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) reports a large Saharan dust plume is forecasted to impact air quality in parts of the Brownsville-McAllen, Laredo, and Corpus Christi areas.

The Saharan Dust plume is expected to last through the week with the highest-density peak reaching the Coastal Bend today and gradually decreasing as the week progresses.

The Saharan Air Layer is a mass of dry, dusty air that forms over the Sahara Desert. During the peak period of late June to mid-August, dust blows out of Africa and into the North Atlantic Ocean every three to five days.

Impact on Public Health

The presence of the Saharan dust can pose various health risks, especially for vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma, chronic bronchitis, or allergies. The dust particles are very fine and can penetrate the respiratory system, potentially causing or exacerbating respiratory problems. The dust may carry allergens and irritants, triggering allergic reactions and respiratory discomfort in sensitive individuals.

During a Saharan Air Layer event:

•Stay informed. Watch for alerts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and local media outlets.

•Limit outdoor activity. If outdoor activities cannot be avoided, wearing an N95 mask is recommended. The mask protects against inhaling dust particles and other particulate matter.

•Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. The dry and dusty conditions may lead to increased water loss through respiration.

•Monitor Indoor Air Quality. Staying indoors with windows and doors closed will reduce dust particle infiltration. Using an air purifier with a HEPA filter may also help improve indoor air quality.

For more information, visit the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) 4-Day Air Quality Outlook at www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/monops/forecast_today.html.

For a real-time satellite map of the Saharan Air Layer, visit Saharan Air Layer (SAL) - GOES-16 Split Window - Latest Available (wisc.edu).

For media inquiries, contact Public Information Officer Cassandra Hinojosa at 361-826-2944 or [email protected].

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