2024-07-24 11:34:48
Insivumeh has reported that a Sahara dust cloud to enter Guatemala again this week, with higher concentrations for two days. In this note we provide you with more details and share the symptoms that could occur and recommendations for taking care of your health.
Sahara dust cloud to enter Guatemala again
Through a Special Bulletin, the National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology —Insivumeh— has reported that this Tuesday, July 23, a Sahara dust cloud to enter Guatemala again.
This phenomenon is expected to affect air quality in the country for four days, with the highest concentrations expected on Tuesday, July 23 and Wednesday, July 24, reaching levels of up to 97µg/m³ —micrograms per cubic meter—. The mass could disperse and leave Guatemalan territory by Friday, July 26, although the institution will continue to monitor the situation to provide updates on any significant changes.
Saharan dust consists of fine particles of sand and minerals that rise from the Sahara Desert in Africa and are carried by winds across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas and other regions of the world. This phenomenon can travel thousands of kilometers, and when it reaches the atmosphere in other areas, it can affect air quality, cause hazy skies, and have effects on health and the environment. Despite the drawbacks, it also provides nutrients to soils and oceans, benefiting certain ecosystems.
Protect your health and that of your loved ones
The arrival of this cloud will affect air quality in Guatemala, so it is crucial to take measures to protect health, especially in people with pre-existing respiratory conditions. The most common symptoms that may occur due to exposure to Sahara dust include:
- Coughing and sneezing: Inhalation of fine particles may irritate the respiratory tract.
- Difficulty breathing: People with asthma, chronic bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may experience a worsening of their symptoms.
- Chest tightness: There may be a feeling of tightness or pain in the chest due to irritation of the airways.
- Itching and redness: Fine particles can cause eye irritation, causing itching, redness and tearing.
- Foreign body sensation: It may feel like there is sand or particles in your eyes.
- Skin irritation: Prolonged exposure may cause dryness, itching and irritation of the skin.
To protect your health, the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction —Conred— recommends taking the following precautions:
- Wear a mask when going out: Masks can help filter out fine particles and reduce their inhalation.
- Avoid outdoor activities: Reduce time spent outdoors to minimize exposure.
- Using glasses or sunglasses: Protects eyes from dust and prevents irritation.
- Medical consultations: Those with pre-existing respiratory conditions should contact their nearest health center for specific recommendations.
Would you like to be part of our community of positive content? Be part of our WhatsApp group and receive news, information about tourist places, recommendations on what to do in Guatemala, stories of nostalgia and more. Join through this link: