Saharan Air Layer to Bring Hot and Dry Weather to Florida
Florida residents may want to brace themselves for hot and dry weather this weekend as the Saharan Air Layer makes its way to the Tampa Bay area. According to meteorologists, the layer of dry air formed by dust plumes blowing from the Sahara Desert across the Atlantic Ocean is expected to affect the weather patterns in the region.
Similar dust clouds have blown into the state during past summers, a phenomenon that occurs when dust particles are carried across long distances. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration explains that dust clouds from the Saharan Air Layer can have an impact on weather patterns far away. Currently, this layer is hanging about 1 mile above sea level between the Bahamas and Puerto Rico.
Rodney Wynn, a meteorologist from the National Weather Service, predicts that Tampa Bay will experience the peak conditions of this weather event on Sunday. With global average temperatures already reaching the highest in decades this week, the arrival of the Saharan Air Layer could continue to contribute to the unseasonably warm weather.
Wynn expects temperatures to be about 3 to 4 degrees above average, resulting in warm and slightly drier conditions. However, he reassures residents that the height of the dust clouds should not pose any visibility concerns and mentions that waking up to a layer of dust on cars is not a possibility.
While the Saharan Air Layer may have some negative effects, such as irritating pre-existing respiratory issues, it does have some positive aspects as well. Megan Borowski, a meteorologist from the Florida Public Radio Emergency Network, explains that the layer could lead to stunning sunsets and atmospheric optical effects, such as halos around the sun. This occurs due to the way sand and dust particles reflect sunlight.
Interestingly, this dry air layer could also impact hurricane season predictions. Despite forecasters initially expecting an above-average season due to hot Atlantic Ocean temperatures, the incoming dry air and dust particles may actually delay the formation of tropical storms, which thrive in moist conditions. Borowski emphasizes that the thickness of the air layer plays a part in thunderstorms, as thicker layers consist of more dry air and dust particles, helping to subdue tropical activity.
As Floridians prepare for the arrival of the Saharan Air Layer and its potential impact, it is important to stay informed and take necessary precautions to stay safe and healthy during this weather event.