The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a warning regarding high levels of dust pollution across the country originating in the deserts of North Africa.
In an update to its advisory which was posted on January 30, via social media, the EPA informed that visibility remains affected by Saharan dust and the concentration of particulate matter or dust particles in the atmosphere has increased.
The release noted that data captured by the EPA’s air quality sensors located at Whim, Eccles, Vilvoorden, Central Georgetown, and Linden, show particulate matter levels significantly above the World Health Organization standard for ‘Good’ air quality. As such, the Agency informs that the haze caused by Saharan dust will continue to develop and advises that extra caution should be taken on the roadways.
Meanwhile, NASA out of the US has forecast the continued presence of the dust plume up to February 07.
The EPA explained that the Saharan dust plume is composed of sand, dirt, and dust, lifted from the Sahara in North Africa. It is transported by the trade winds from North Africa over the Atlantic Ocean, through the Caribbean and across South America. The reach of the plume is dependent on the wind and weather. The Saharan dust plume is a normal phenomenon that may occur several times throughout the year.
According to the release, the elderly, children, and persons who have respiratory, and skin conditions are encouraged to take necessary precautions. During this time, persons are encouraged to spend more time indoors and to wear dust masks as practicable.
Data collected by the EPA on the Saharan dust plume within the last two years indicates that peak concentrations may occur in January, March, April, August and September. The Agency assures that any changes to the forecast of peak concentrations will be reported.
Persons wishing to access a near real-time update on the Air Quality Index in their area may visit the EPA’s website: https://epaguyana.org/ and select the ‘Your Environment’ and then click ‘Air quality Data’.
