AUSTIN, Texas — It’s that time of year again when dust from the Saharan Desert makes its way into Texas.
By now, most Central Texans are aware the dust causes hazy skies and colorful sunrises and sunsets. But for some people, breathing the dust can lead to a trip to the hospital.
First, it’s important to understand just how much dust can make it from Africa to the U.S.
Just the size of the Sahara is impressive – 3.6 million square miles, or roughly the size of the U.S. Saharan dust reaches us by being carried across the Atlantic Ocean by the Trade Winds. The dust is typically lifted into the atmosphere by strong storms, especially during the summer months. These winds can carry millions of tons of dust into the air, where it can reach altitudes of up to 15,000 feet.
It’s what’s inside the massive dust cloud that is a health concern. It consists of fine particulate matter, including minerals, heavy metals and allergens. The health effects of Saharan dust exposure are particularly pronounced for people with preexisting respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic bronchitis.
The tiny dust particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. This can make respiratory problems worse, lead to inflammation and worsen cardiovascular conditions.
To mitigate these health effects, the experts say that several preventive measures can be taken:
- Keeping track of air quality reports helps people take appropriate precautions
- During high dust periods, it is advisable to stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed
- Staying hydrated helps keep respiratory passages moist and less susceptible to irritation
Doctors say by adopting these measures, the health risks associated with Saharan dust can be significantly reduced.