As of Tuesday, 12 July 2022, the Dominican Republic will be under cover of a thick layer of dust from the Sahara Desert pushing westward over the Atlantic Ocean. Some rains are still forecast, the result of a weather system moving across the island.
Nevertheless, meteorologist Jean Suriel forecasts hazy skies nationwide starting Monday until Thursday.
The dry and dusty air from the Sahara Desert is known to limit tropical storm development as these need moisture to form and strengthen. The dust particles also absorb and reflect sunlight, bringing hazy skies, sunrises and sunsets.
The dust is an irritant to a person’s airways. Likewise, those suffering from respiratory issues and allergies may worsen their condition.
On the positive side, the iron-rich dust can help algae blooms or red tide develop, but the dust also helps fertilize the soil.
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11 July 2022