Health Authority cautions against Sahara dust impact

Residents across the BVI are being urged to take precautions as a significant plume of Saharan dust blankets the territory, reducing air quality and posing health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.

In an advisory issued on Wednesday, the BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) warned that exposure to elevated dust levels may cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, coughing, sneezing and difficulty breathing. The health authority said older adults, pregnant women, young children and people living with asthma, allergies, chronic respiratory illnesses or heart conditions are especially vulnerable and should take extra care.

Residents are being advised to limit prolonged outdoor activities, especially during periods of heavy dust, keep windows and doors closed where possible, use air conditioning on recirculate mode, wear a well-fitted N95 or KN95 mask when outdoors, stay hydrated and keep prescribed medications, including asthma inhalers, readily available.

Anyone experiencing severe shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent wheezing or worsening respiratory symptoms is being urged to seek immediate medical attention.

Saharan dust is a natural phenomenon that occurs when strong winds lift massive amounts of fine sand and mineral dust from the Sahara Desert in North Africa. The dust is then carried thousands of miles across the Atlantic Ocean by prevailing trade winds, often reaching the Caribbean several times each year, particularly during the summer months.

While the hazy conditions can worsen air quality and reduce visibility, meteorologists note that Saharan dust also plays a beneficial role during the Atlantic hurricane season. The dry, dusty air suppresses thunderstorm development, while strong winds associated with the dust layer increase wind shear, making it more difficult for tropical systems to organise and strengthen into hurricanes.