By Admin. Updated 3:47 p.m., Tuesday, February 6, 2024, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
Moderate concentrations of Saharan dust can be expected in SVG by Thursday, February 8, and people with respiratory problems are urged to exercise caution.
In a February 6 press release, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and the Environment said the particles contained within the Saharan dust haze could contribute to health effects such as a dry cough, sore throat, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and runny nose.
“The anticipated concentrations of the Saharan dust may severely affect persons with respiratory diseases such as asthma and persons with pre-existing heart disease. Also, elderly and children are also vulnerable at this time,” the health ministry said.
“Persons with respiratory issues and allergies are asked to always keep with them all medications, including asthma inhalers which are needed to manage their conditions. Persons should limit their exposure to the Saharan dust by staying indoors when possible or wearing a dust mask if they must go outdoors,” the health ministry said.
“Affected persons should seek medical attention at their nearest health care center if they experience worsening symptoms because ofincreasing levels of Saharan dust,” the ministry added.
The Sharan dust haze and the weather:
The health ministry said the Meteorological Services at the Argyle International Airport in an advisory issued on Tuesday February 06, 2024, advised that varying concentrations of Saharan dust continue to create hazy conditions reducing visibility across St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) and the associated dry air limits shower activity.
“Historically, rainfall total across SVG are lowest during the months of February – March. Moderate concentrations of Saharan dust can be expected by Thursday. Meanwhile, moisture converges just west of the island chain on Wednesday and spreads cloudiness across SVG,” the health ministry said.
The chance of showers across our islands increases late Thursday and during Friday.
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