There are pros and cons to the Saharan Dust clouds covering the Caribbean. On one hand, it’s hotter than usual. On the other, weather forecasters say the Saharan Dust weakens weather systems reducing the intensity of the rains that passing troughs may bring this week.
The weather report says were scattered showers, isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds due to the passing trough system on Wednesday, 23 July. The trough extending through various levels of the troposphere is currently triggering scattered showers across the southeastern provinces of the Dominican Republic and the capital city.
The most affected areas are expected to include Monte Plata, Sánchez Ramírez, Monseñor Nouel, San Cristóbal, La Vega, Santiago, Santiago Rodríguez, Dajabón, San Juan, Elías Piña, and northern parts of Greater Santo Domingo. Due to these conditions, localized urban flooding may occur in vulnerable areas.
Conditions will be drier on Thursday, 24 July, yet Indomet says showers continue to be likely.
On Thursday, atmospheric moisture is forecast to decrease over much of the country, as Saharan dust continues to affect the region. Although a tropical wave will approach Dominican territory, most of its activity will remain over the Caribbean Sea. As a result, rainfall is expected to diminish.
However, some morning showers are still possible in María Trinidad Sánchez, Duarte, and Sánchez Ramírez. During the afternoon, isolated showers may develop in areas such as San Cristóbal, Monseñor Nouel, San José de Ocoa, and La Vega, primarily due to wind interaction with mountainous terrain and daytime heating. The likelihood of thunderstorms or strong wind gusts will remain low.
The forecast is also for rough seas for the Atlantic and Caribbean coasts. Small, fragile, and medium-sized vessels are advised to remain in port.
Similarly, on the Caribbean Coast, between Cabo Pisaje (Barahona) and Cabo Beata (Pedernales), conditions will be unfavorable for marine operations, and boats should also stay in port. In other coastal areas, navigation should remain close to the shore and avoid heading out to open waters.
Read more in Spanish:
Indomet
Listin Diario
El Nacional
24 July 2025