Saharan dust layer could hit Texas this weekend, experts say. Here’s what to know
Plumes of dust from the Saharan desert are crossing the Atlantic and could arrive in Texas as early as this weekend, according to weather experts.
“A fresh supply of dust was airlifted from the Sahara in early June 2022, and some of it appeared to be headed for the Americas,” NASA said in a June 7 release.
Some weather models predict Texas will be right in the path of the incoming Saharan Air Layer.
Based on a model by NASA, “the leading edge of the (layer) would probably reach our region by Sunday, (June 12),” Keith White, meteorologist with the National Weather Service, told McClatchy News.
If you’re in an area impacted by the dust, chances are you will be able to see it.
“This dust layer would be lofted above resulting in a hazy looking sky, and usually colorful sunsets,” NWS meteorologist Jennifer Dunn told McClatchy News.
But those colorful sunsets come at a price, as the dust “may irritate allergies and those sensitive to dust particles in the air,” Dunn said.
Much of east Texas is expected to see a mild to moderate amount of dust, but parts of north Texas appear in the path as well, the model shows. Meanwhile, central and west Texas should be mostly in the clear.
“There may be a maximum of aerosol (dust) concentration over eastern portions of Texas by Tuesday,” White said. The dust is predicted to thin out and disperse after Tuesday, June 14.
“It’s hard to say how long it will stick around, as atmospheric modeling generally becomes less and less realistic beyond one week lead time,” White added. “But judging by current observations,” there may be some lingering effects “over or near Texas for some time.”
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