Sahara dust alert for Panama

The Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology of Panama issued on Tuesday, July 25 a 48-hour surveillance notice for the incursion of dust particles from the Sahara in various sectors of Panama  

According to the institution’s estimates, an incursion of Saharan dust in low concentrations between 10 and 25 mg/m2 is expected for this Tuesday, and added to local conditions, will cause an increase in trade winds, generating wave breakers, fires in some sectors of the country, and dust rising from construction.

In addition, the condition of elevated thermal sensation will increase, a slight reduction in visibility and effects on the population sensitive to allergic respiratory symptoms.

Sahara dust consists of a hot, dry air mass laden with sand particles that forms over the Sahara desert due to strong winds in the North African region, strong trade winds begin to blow west in the North Atlantic. The maximum intensity of these winds is reached from mid-June to mid-August; They move over the Tropical North Atlantic, reaching the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico and even the southern United States.

The Sahara desert is located approximately 11,000 kilometers from Panama.

Health effects
According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), “the danger generated by the phenomenon of annual recurrence lies in the content of bacteria, viruses, spores, iron, mercury, and pesticides in the dust.”

When these storms of earth particles break out, they can cause “the appearance of allergies and asthmatic attacks in many people, especially those who already suffered from respiratory problems or immunosuppression,” the organization continues.

The Ministry of the Environment advises the use of a mask or handkerchiefs and glasses to protect mucus and eyesight. And if you suffer from respiratory diseases, asthma, or allergies, avoid exposure to the open air as much as possible.