Recently, Athens and other parts of Greece were engulfed in a thick orange haze, caused by a massive dust storm from the Sahara Desert. This phenomenon, one of the most intense since March 2018, reduced visibility and sunlight across the region. Authorities have raised concerns about the potential health risks, especially for people with existing health conditions, due to increased levels of fine pollution particles in the air.
The dust storm was driven by strong southerly winds, which also led to unseasonal wildfires in southern Greece. Although these fires were swiftly managed without significant damage or injuries, they added to the environmental challenges faced by the country.
The Greek weather service has forecasted that the skies will begin to clear soon. In the meantime, residents have been advised to stay indoors as much as possible to avoid the adverse effects of the dust. This natural occurrence illustrates how large dust particles from the Sahara can travel thousands of kilometres, affecting air quality far beyond the desert’s borders.
Cover Photo Source: CNN
#MaltaDaily
