Sahara Dust Envelops Athens and Other Greek Cities in Thick Haze

A severe dust storm originating from the Sahara desert has blanketed Athens and various other Greek cities, marking one of the worst such incidents since 2018. The yellow-orange haze has significantly reduced visibility and prompted health warnings due to potential respiratory issues. Authorities anticipate the skies to clear on Wednesday as winds change direction and move the dust away, bringing a drop in temperatures.

Sahara Dust and Wildfires Blanket Greece

On Tuesday, skies over southern Greece, including Athens, turned orange due to dust clouds from the Sahara Desert. Strong winds carried the dust, giving the atmosphere a Martian-like appearance and engulfing the Acropolis. This is one of the most severe episodes of dust from the Sahara since 2018, according to Kostas Lagouvardos of the Athens Observatory. As the winds shift, the skies are expected to clear on Wednesday. However, wildfires, fueled by strong southerly winds, have broken out across the country. Three people were arrested in Paros for accidentally starting a fire. While another blaze near a naval base in Crete was contained. Greece has faced Sahara dust clouds before in March and April, and officials warn of increased pollution particles that could impact those with health issues. The country also suffers from regular wildfires, with fears of a challenging season due to drought and high temperatures.

Sahara Dust Envelops Athens, Turning Skies Orange

Incredible pictures show the skies over Athens turned orange as dust clouds blew across the Mediterranean Sea from North Africa, engulfing the Acropolis. Strong southerly winds carried the dust from the Sahara Desert across southern Greece, making the Greek capital resemble Mars on Tuesday evening. Experts warn of health risks from fine pollution, while winds are expected to shift and clear the skies on Wednesday. In addition, strong winds have fueled unseasonably early wildfires in Greece, with 25 breaking out in the past 24 hours and three arrests made on Paros island.

Sahara Dust Blankets Greece and Cyprus, Prompts Health Warnings

A thick layer of dust from the Sahara desert has descended upon parts of Greece, creating stunning dreamlike scenes and prompting health warnings. The dust, which is a yellow-orange hue, has reduced visibility and raised concerns about respiratory issues. Authorities in Greece and Cyprus have issued health advisories, urging people to take precautions. The dust is expected to gradually dissipate over the next few days.

Sahara Dust and Unseasonal Wildfires Sweep Greece

Southern Greece has been experiencing a surreal scene as orange skies enveloped the Acropolis and other Athens landmarks due to dust clouds from North Africa. This Martian-like atmosphere is expected to clear on Wednesday as winds shift, bringing cooler temperatures. Strong southerly winds have fueled early wildfires in the country’s south, leading to 25 outbreaks in the past 24 hours. Three arrests have been made on the island of Paros for accidentally starting a blaze. Fortunately, no significant damage or injuries have been reported. However, concerns remain about potential challenges for firefighters in the coming months due to the persistent drought and high spring temperatures.

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