By Admin. Updated 12:24 p.m., Saturday, 31 May 2025, Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4).
The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Meteorological Services (SVG Met Office) announced on Saturday (31 May) that a thick plume of Saharan dust is crossing the Eastern Caribbean.
The SVG Met Office joins the Ministry of Health, Wellness, and the Environment in alerting the Vincentian public to reduced air quality and visibility across the country over the coming days.
According to the SVG Met Office, the large dust concentrations across the Atlantic have already reduced visibility across the islands and could begin to thin out around Tuesday afternoon.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment has advised the public that particles contained within the Saharan dust haze could cause several health effects, including dry cough, sore throat, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, and runny nose.
The concentrations of Saharan dust may severely affect persons with respiratory diseases such as asthma and those with pre-existing heart conditions, the health ministry said, adding that “the elderly and children are also vulnerable at this time”.
“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.”
“Vincentians are encouraged to limit their exposure to the Saharan dust by staying indoors when possible or wearing a dust mask if they must go outdoors. Affected persons should seek medical attention at their nearest health care centre if they experience worsening symptoms because of increasing levels of Saharan dust,” the ministry added.
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