Saharan Dust Creates Stunning Sunsets and Health Risks in Central Texas

As a thick cloud of Saharan dust falls over Central Texas for a week, beautiful sunsets will be visible. However, the dust may also be harmful to your health. When the huge plume arrived on June 29, it transformed sunsets and sunrises into vibrant displays of orange, red, and yellow.

A 2.5-mile-thick blanket of warm, dry air and fine dust particles called the Saharan Air Layer moves every year from Africa across the Atlantic to the Americas. This layer affects the weather by stopping cyclones from forming, according to the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service. It can also hurt people's health.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) states that the fine particles in the dust can trigger coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing in individuals with asthma, allergies, or other lung diseases. Researchers have even found a link between high levels of Saharan dust and an increased risk of heart problems.

People who are worried about their health should stay inside when there is a lot of dust, according to NOAA. Luckily, the National Weather Service predicts that there will only be light concentrations this year, which means that visibility will be relatively good. Travel will not be significantly slowed down.

People in the area are advised to enjoy the beautiful sunsets safely, either from inside or by limiting their time outside, as the dust can prevent afternoon showers and make the days hotter. When sunshine hits dust particles in the air, it makes the warm tones of sunrise and sunset stand out more, allowing bright colors to appear.

The Saharan dust cloud is expected to clear out by the end of the week, bringing normalcy back to the skies over Central Texas for a short time, but leaving behind unforgettable Technicolor nights.

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