Sahara dust cloud spreads across Mexico, affecting multiple states

A large dust plume from the Sahara Desert entered Mexico on 12 July and is expected to linger until 18 July. The National Water Commission (Conagua), citing a NASA forecast, said the highest concentrations will be over the Yucatán Peninsula and the Gulf of Mexico, with additional impacts in the northeast, the southern Pacific coast and the Mexico City valley.

The dust is likely to reduce rainfall formation, cause hazy skies and cooler night‑time temperatures in high‑altitude areas, and may trigger respiratory discomfort for people with asthma or allergies. Authorities warned of possible health effects and advised the public to limit outdoor activities when particle levels rise.