Every summer, you will hear all about the Saharan Dust moving into the United States as if this is the first time it has ever happened. Recently, we have seen the dusty debris make its way back into the Four-States region. Just how is it able to travel across the Atlantic Ocean and settle in out area?
For that answer, we have to look up. Trade winds are winds that from from east to west across the Atlantic Ocean between the equator and 30° north and south of the equator. This time of year, there is increased storm activity across Africa, which is what causes the dust to be stirred up in the first place. Once this dust gets kicked up, it travels over 5,000 miles and makes its way into the Four-States region.
One of the few plus sides to the Saharan Dust is that it makes for very vibrant sunrises and sunsets. Individuals who are sensitive to allergens will likely have more sinus issued when Saharan Dust invades.