Despite its mild climate, Cyprus faces a serious air pollution problem, especially in the form of airborne dust from neighboring regions. Dust storms are a phenomenon that both locals and tourists notice, but few people think about where it comes from, how often it occurs and why it can be hazardous to health.
The main source of dust that flies to Cyprus is the North African deserts, in particular the Sahara. The wind carries fine particles of sand and dust across the Mediterranean Sea, sometimes covering distances of several thousand kilometers. These dust streams can reach the island both in summer and in the off-season, but the phenomenon is especially common in spring and autumn, when air masses become more unstable and wind currents intensify. In Cyprus, dust storms occur several times a month during peak seasons, although the exact number depends on weather conditions.
In the spring, from March to May, the dry air of the Sahara rises more easily to the upper layers of the atmosphere, and in the fall, from September to November, winds from the northeast intensify, which also contributes to the transfer of particles. Dust flows are less frequent during the summer months, but can become stronger during dry periods with strong winds.
During a dust storm, the sky may turn grayish or yellowish. To an untrained observer, it seems that it has simply become cloudy, but this is not so. Most of the year it is sunny in Cyprus, so “cloudy” weather is most likely not cloudy, but dusty.
During dusty episodes, it is important to take precautions. If possible, stay indoors, close windows and doors, use filtered air conditioners, and wear a mask when outdoors. This is especially important for people with diseases of the respiratory system. The presence of children and elderly people outdoors should be limited. Even healthy people on the street should avoid active physical activity, when breathing quickens and a large amount of dust enters the body.
Dust has serious health impacts. Tiny particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract, causing irritation of the mucous membranes, coughing, allergic reactions and exacerbation of chronic diseases of the lungs and heart. For people with asthma, bronchitis or cardiovascular problems, dust is especially dangerous. Along with sand, chemical elements, pesticides and microbes can enter the air, which increases the risk of inflammatory processes and infectious diseases.
A severe dust storm can damage equipment and cars, pollute buildings and agricultural crops. On a long-term basis, repeated dust flows contribute to the deterioration of public health and require systematic monitoring and informing citizens about the risks.
What else, besides dust, can be contained in the air and how to monitor air quality in Cyprus? Read our article at the link.
