A thick veil of dust originating from the Sahara has enveloped Athens and other Greek cities, transforming the sky into an eerie yellow-orange hue, as captured in videos circulating on Tuesday. Meteorological services have forecasted that the Sahara dust storm will bring mud rains to the northern and western regions of Greece. The heightened spring temperatures have intensified the storm’s impact, as reported by local weather bulletins. The wind is expected to shift westward on Wednesday, leading to lower dust levels. Dr. Kostas Lagouvardos, director of research at the Institute for Environmental Research and Sustainable Development at the National Observatory, stated to the Athens-Macedonian News Agency that such phenomena are common during these months, often accompanied by southerly winds and elevated temperatures. He emphasized the significance of the environmental issue, citing its impact on a large population, particularly when high dust concentrations are present on the ground. Medical professionals have raised concerns about the increased health risks posed by the storm, especially for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The Sahara sandstorm also caused disruptions in Libya, forcing the suspension of air traffic on Monday and Tuesday. Winds reached speeds of up to 70 km/h, as reported by the Libya Observer. Local media aired footage showing a runway covered in a thick layer of sand.
Saharan Dust Storm Blankets Greece, Boosting Temperatures and Affecting Air Quality
