Global Courant
The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology of Guatemala (Insivumeh), issued an information bulletin on Monday, July 24, in which it warned about the presence of dust from the Sahara in Guatemalan territory.
According to the monitoring, the highest concentrations of dust could occur between this Monday, July 24, and Tuesday, July 25, in the departments of Petén, Izabal, Alta Verapaz, and Zacapa.
The mass of dust from the Sahara could remain in the country until next Sunday, July 30, reported the meteorological center.
This “hot and dry air mass” is formed by strong winds that lift particles from the desert and moves from North Africa to the American continent.
The phenomenon is not unusual and occurs several times a year, although according to reports it is estimated that its greatest intensity is registered from June to mid-August.
Also read: Tremor in Guatemala: 4.4 earthquake is reported in Huehuetenango and there are 25 in the last hours
recommendations
People prone to respiratory diseases or allergies may have medical complications if they breathe in the dust.
The problems that can be generated are inflammation in the respiratory tract, allergies and eye irritation.
Due to the presence of this phenomenon, the Insivumeh shared a series of recommendations, which are:
Avoid exposing yourself to environmental pollution, especially people with asthma or respiratory problems. If you are outside your home, wear a mask at all times to reduce the risk of inhalation of contaminants. If you need to sweep or dust the spaces in your home, sprinkle water to prevent dust from spreading. Cover the drinking water to avoid ingesting the particles. If eye discomfort occurs, it is important to wash with plenty of water. Pay attention to the bulletins issued by Insivumeh.
According to scientific reports, the dust from the Sahara contributes naturally to the Earth’s cycles, since its composition facilitates the transport of various mineral components such as Nitrogen and Phosphorus, these elements that nourish the soils of tropical areas.
The particles are also usually carbonates (limestone, dolomite), clays, quartz, and iron and manganese oxides.
SPECIAL NEWSLETTER
BSC-12-2023
AIR QUALITY INDEX
JULY 24, 2023#INSIVUMEHGeoscientific development for all. #SomosINSIVUMEH #Guatemala pic.twitter.com/D2S8NLTs3M
– INSIVUMEH Guatemala (@insivumehgt) July 24, 2023
