AUSTIN, Texas — You may have noticed that there's a haze in the air in Central Texas this week, as a dense plume of Saharan dust moves into our area. You may even feel like the air tastes a little, well, dusty. But have you also noticed an unusual smell?
KVUE's Grace Thornton has. On social media Wednesday morning, Thornton asked, "Do we feel like this Saharan dust smells? If I close my eyes, I feel like I'm near the beach?!"
According to air experts, Thornton is on to something. Texas-based HVAC company Richmond's Air reports that while Saharan dust is mostly made up of sand particles and other materials that don't necessarily have a distinct smell, other factors can cause an odor.
For instance, if the dust mixes with pollutants as it travels across the world, that could potentially cause it to smell. Saharan dust can also sometimes carry microorganisms, like bacteria and fungi, that may produce a musty or earthy smell when they become airborne.
Where does Saharan dust come from?
As its name suggests, Saharan dust comes to Texas from the Sahara Desert in Africa. It's carried across the Atlantic Ocean by the Trade Winds and is typically lifted into the atmosphere by strong storms, especially during the summer.
How is Saharan dust hazardous to your health?
It’s what’s inside the dust that poses a health concern. This is those particles at work again, including minerals, heavy metals and allergens.
The health impacts of Saharan dust are particularly pronounced for people with preexisting respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic bronchitis. The tiny dust particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, which can make respiratory problems worse, lead to inflammation and worsen cardiovascular conditions.
Sensitive groups should limit their time outdoors when the air quality is poor. It's also beneficial to stay hydrated to keep respiratory passages moist and less susceptible to irritation.
Are there any benefits to Saharan dust?
Saharan dust isn't all bad. There are several ways the dust benefits the planet, including helping maintain global oxygen production, providing nutrients for soil and suppressing hurricane development.
The dust also often leads to very vivid sunrises and sunsets.