ORLANDO, Fla. - A massive plume of Saharan dust is headed over the Atlantic Ocean towards the United States – and should reach Florida later this week.
For early birds and photographers, it will mean vibrant and stunning sunrises and sunsets. For those with respiratory concerns, it could also reduce the air quality on those days.
What is Saharan dust?
Saharan Dust – also referred to as the Saharan Dust Layer (SAL) — refers to large, thick clouds of sand, dust, and other partials that can travel from the Sahara Desert in Africa thousands of miles across the Atlantic Ocean to the United States, including Florida.
It typically sits between 5,000 and 15,000 feet in the sky, traveling alongside the tropical air during hurricane season. Sometimes it reaches the United States, and other times it does not.
Vibrant sunrises and sunsets
Because the air is filled with these sand and dust particles, it makes the perfect environment for beautiful sunrises and sunsets. You can expect vibrant hues of orange, yellow, and reds as the sun's light reflects off those particles in the atmosphere.
Less pop-up storms, but a few downbursts are possible
As the dust arrives, it typically will reduce the overall changes of afternoon and evening thunderstorms – at least temporarily – during Florida's rainy season.
However, if any storms do form, there is a chance to see more "downbursts," which is when air collapses out of a thunderstorm towards the ground, creating very strong, potentially damaging wind gusts.
Reduced air quality
Saharan dust can also reduce the air quality for the days that it arrives. Those who have respiratory health concerns or allergies should check the air quality and take proper precautions.
The Source: The information is from FOX 35 meteorologist Noah Bergren.