Istanbul faces desert dust: Air quality to drop, sky to turn orange

Prof. Dr. Hüseyin Toros, a faculty member at the Istanbul Technical University (ITU) Department of Climate Science and Meteorological Engineering, announced that Istanbul will remain under the influence of desert dust for one week. Fine dust particles transported from North Africa and the Sahara Desert are reaching Turkey via wind currents.

Prof. Dr. Toros stated that this situation is a normal natural phenomenon, adding, "Dust rising from warming desert regions can be transported to Europe and Turkey by wind currents. Desert dust will be effective in Istanbul for a week. We may see deposits on vehicles and surfaces."

THE SKY WILL TURN ORANGE

Desert dust will not only lower air quality but will also change the color of the atmosphere. Prof. Dr. Toros said, "While it is sometimes felt less at ground level, it can sometimes cause the sky to take on yellow, orange, and red tones, especially at sunrise and sunset. A hazy and reddish sky is an indicator that desert dust is active."

ALARM BELLS RINGING FOR HEALTH

The effects of desert dust on human health are also concerning. Prof. Dr. Toros noted that these dusts contain fine sand, clay, and mineral particles, emphasizing that asthma and bronchitis patients, in particular, should be careful.

Health problems that desert dust can cause:

It poses a risk for those with respiratory tract ailments.

An increase in PM10 and PM 2.5 levels is observed, and air quality drops.

It can cause eye and skin irritation.

Staying outside for long periods can lead to respiratory distress.

"It is important for the elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses not to go outside unless necessary. Especially those who exercise and work outdoors should pay attention to air quality. It is recommended to reduce outdoor activities during periods of intense desert dust," he warned.

WHEN WILL IT LOSE ITS EFFECT?

According to weather forecast models, the effect of desert dust in Istanbul will last for 1 week. However, the duration of the effect may change depending on wind currents.