Will Saharan Dust Affect Cartagena? Risk Management Responds

Saharan dust has once again become a topic of conversation in the Colombian Caribbean. However, meteorological and risk management authorities have sent a message of calm regarding this atmospheric phenomenon.

Will Saharan Dust Affect Cartagena? Risk Management Responds

TL;DR

  • The IDEAM has detected minimal quantities of Saharan dust entering the Colombian Caribbean coast.
  • Authorities in Cartagena assure that this minimal amount of dust poses no threat or impact on the population.
  • This phenomenon typically occurs annually, with a more notable presence starting in April and peaking in July-August.
  • Saharan dust is dry air laden with mineral particles, primarily fine sand, originating from the Sahara Desert and transported across the Atlantic.
  • Larger concentrations of Saharan dust can help reduce the intensity of tropical storms and hurricanes.