A colossal cloud of Saharan dust, spanning an area comparable to the United States, has enveloped the Caribbean. The dust plume, originating from the Sahara Desert, stretches over 2,000 kilometers across the region, affecting countries from Jamaica to Barbados and from the Turks and Caicos Islands to Trinidad and Tobago.
The dust has caused reduced visibility and health issues such as sneezing, coughing, and eye irritation. Authorities in Puerto Rico's capital, San Juan, have issued heat warnings as the dust particles trap ground heat. Residents are advised to wear masks due to poor air quality, and the dust is also leaving streets, cars, and homes covered in grime.
Experts predict the dust cloud will reach the southern United States, including Florida, Texas, and Louisiana, later this week. Satellite images clearly show the plume, which has traveled over 8,000 kilometers in just over a week. While such dust events are common during this season, the current plume is unusually large.
Beyond the inconveniences, the dust is also creating stunning sunrises and sunsets, with the sky turning shades of orange and red due to the suspended particles.
