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 chance of showers across our islands increases late Thursday and during Friday. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment wishes to advise the public that particles contained within the Saharan dust haze could cause the following health effects:
a dry cough
sore throat
itchy, watery eyes
sneezing
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.
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.
Affected persons should seek medical attention at their nearest health care center if they experience worsening symptoms because of increasing levels of Saharan dust.
