Sahara dust passing over Slovenia increases PM 10 levels

Sahara dust is currently passing over Slovenia, leading to increased levels of PM 10 particles in the atmosphere. While model calculations indicate the dust is primarily staying at higher altitudes today, the Slovenian Environment Agency (Arso) expects elevated PM 10 levels at ground level this Friday.

Recent measurements showed PM 10 concentrations of 17 micrograms per cubic meter in Zagorje, 14 in Nova Gorica Grčna, and 13 in Črna na Koroškem. Other locations, including Brezje pri Grosupljem, Maribor Titova, Celje bolnica, and Murska Sobota Rakičan, recorded levels of 12 micrograms per cubic meter.

Researchers from the University of Nova Gorica's Atmospheric Research Centre noted that Saharan sand concentrations across much of Europe increased between 2012 and 2021, with the highest rises in Southern Europe and the Mediterranean. Experts link this trend to climate change and warn that the dust can significantly impact air quality and human health.