Researchers Report Increase in Saharan Dust Plumes in Europe and Latin America

A large plume of dust from the Sahara Desert blew over the Atlantic Ocean on Tuesday, February 20, satellite imagery shows, as researchers warn that these events are becoming more frequent.

A report from Copernicus, part of the European Union’s space program, said winter 2024 has seen a relatively high number of intense Saharan dust intrusions over Europe and Latin America.

This caused hazy skies and poor air quality in the Canary Islands in December, the report said. Another large plume, captured in NASA footage, reached South America and Scandinavia in late January.

Copernicus said the plumes generally don’t pose health risks except for the areas close to the desert, including the Canary Islands and Mediterranean, which can experience poor air quality. Credit: CSU/CIRA & NOAA via Storyful

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