The Impacts of Saharan Dust on the Caribbean Region
By Mr. Shakeer Baig, Doctoral Candidate and Director, Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service
In this media release, Mr. Shakeer Baig outlines the annual trans-Atlantic transport of Saharan dust and its significant effects on the Caribbean, particularly Trinidad and Tobago. Each year, vast plumes of mineral dust from the Sahara Desert travel across the Atlantic within the Saharan Air Layer (SAL), reaching the region mainly between March and October. These dust events can degrade air quality by increasing fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀), contributing to respiratory illnesses such as asthma and affecting vulnerable populations. Reduced visibility can also impact aviation and transportation. Additionally, the hot, dry air associated with Saharan dust may influence tropical weather systems by suppressing storm development. The release emphasizes the importance of continued monitoring, public advisories, and preparedness to mitigate health, environmental, and operational risks associated with Saharan dust outbreaks.
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