Asthma and sinusitis alert as Sahara dust nears

Weather forecasters today warned people who suffer from breathing ailments to prepare as a thick concentration of Saharan dust nears the island.

In a weather information statement issued today, the Barbados Meteorological Services (BMS) said it is monitoring a thick concentration of Saharan dust haze in the central Atlantic that is expected to blanket Barbados from Wednesday through Friday.

The forecasters cautioned that the impact of the dust haze will vary according to people’s sensitivity and the extent of exposure.

The BMS said: “Persons with respiratory ailments such as asthma and sinusitis could be affected.

“Irritation of the eyes, nose and throat are potential effects of the dust haze.

“Precautions that could be taken are stocking up on necessary medications as well as reducing exposure to this dust haze.”

The Met Office said it will continue to closely monitor the progress of the dust haze and issue any updates as warranted.