Massive Saharan dust crosses Atlantic, reaches Texas: what it means for air quality, health, and hurricanes
Saharan dust consists of fine mineral particles from the Sahara Desert, the largest hot desert. Trade winds carry these particles across the Atlantic, reaching the Caribbean, South America, and parts of North America, including Texas.
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How does Saharan dust travel to Texas?
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Impact on air quality and health
Benefits: suppression of hurricane formation
Additional effects: Sunsets and ocean fertilization
As the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season officially begins on June 1, another atmospheric shift is on the horizon for Texas , this time in the form of Saharan dust drifting across the Atlantic Ocean. The plume is expected to reach the southern Texas coastline by Friday, May 30, bringing with it hazy skies and air pollutants to parts of the state.Though the heaviest concentrations are forecast for the southeastern US, areas in eastern Texas, particularly from Houston to Dallas, will also see dust-filled skies over the weekend. While the dust won't be as dense as in other regions, it may still affect visibility and can create trouble for respiratory patients.Saharan dust consists of fine mineral particles lifted from the Sahara Desert, the world's largest hot desert. Prevailing trade winds transport these particles across the Atlantic Ocean, often reaching the Caribbean, South America, and parts of North America, including Texas.The journey begins with strong winds and thunderstorms in the Sahara region, which lift dust particles into the atmosphere. These particles enter the Saharan Air Layer (SAL), a mass of dry, warm air that moves westward across the Atlantic Ocean. The SAL typically resides 5,000 to 20,000 feet above sea level and can transport dust thousands of miles.The trans-Atlantic journey of Saharan dust to Texas can take several days. The dust is carried by the trade winds, which are east-to-west prevailing winds in the Earth's equatorial region. Upon reaching the Gulf of Mexico, the dust can descend into the lower atmosphere, affecting air quality and visibility in coastal and inland areas of Texas.The arrival of Saharan dust in Texas will make the skies hazy and reduce air quality. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classifies Saharan dust as a particle pollutant, which can pose health risks, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma or allergies.During the dust event, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has forecasted elevated levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in several regions, including Houston, Austin, and San Antonio.All is not bad with the African dust, as it plays a role in suppressing hurricane development. The dry air and increased wind shear associated with the Saharan Air Layer can inhibit the formation and intensification of tropical cyclones. The dust particles absorb sunlight, warming the SAL and creating a temperature inversion that stabilizes the atmosphere, further reducing the likelihood of storm development.Saharan dust can enhance the colors of sunrises and sunsets, leading to vivid sky displays. Additionally, the dust contains nutrients like iron and phosphorus, which can fertilize ocean ecosystems, eventually supporting the growth of phytoplankton and marine food chains.
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