Sahara dust plume reaches Caribbean, affecting weather and health

A massive dust cloud originating in the Sahara Desert is moving across the Atlantic toward the Caribbean, with the strongest impact expected between June and August. Satellite images show the plume reaching Colombia's Caribbean coast, as well as Central American countries, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba and the Dominican Republic.

The dry, mineral‑rich particles scatter sunlight, tinting skies orange‑red and reducing atmospheric moisture, which can suppress cloud formation and lower rainfall while raising temperatures. Health agencies warn that the high concentration of fine particles aggravates respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD and allergies. They recommend that vulnerable groups stay indoors, keep windows closed, use N95/KN95 masks outdoors, and wear protective eyewear.

In addition to the visual and health effects, the deposited dust supplies nutrients like phosphorus and iron to soils, potentially benefiting regional agriculture and ecosystems.