Saharan Dust Returns to South Florida, Impacts Air Quality
A mass of Saharan dust has traveled thousands of miles across the Atlantic Ocean, reaching South Florida, including Miami and the Florida Keys, on Wednesday evening. The dust, originating from the Sahara Desert in northern Africa, is composed of particulate matter and is a common phenomenon, especially between late June and mid-August, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Forecasts indicate the dust may spread further across Florida, potentially reaching Tampa and Orlando over the weekend. While concentrations are not particularly heavy at this time, the dust can cause hazy skies, colorful sunrises and sunsets, and limit thunderstorm development by trapping heat near the ground. The dust also contains minerals like iron and phosphorous, which can benefit ecosystems but may also harm vegetation and marine life.
