Overview

• The largest Saharan dust plume of the year spans nearly 2,000 miles across the Caribbean, extending from Jamaica to Barbados.
• Models predict the plume will drift northwest to reach Florida by mid-week, then spread inland to Georgia, the Carolinas, Texas and Louisiana by Friday.
• NOAA researchers say the Saharan Air Layer’s warm, dry winds and dust particles have a documented effect of suppressing tropical cyclone formation and intensification.
• Health advisories urge individuals with respiratory issues to limit outdoor activity as air quality deteriorates under the incoming dust.
• Fine dust is expected to cause hazy skies, reduced visibility and vivid sunrises and sunsets when sunlight scatters through the plume.