A massive cloud of dust from the Saharan Desert is making its way over the Atlantic right now, and it could potentially reach the United States in a few days. While that sounds a little intimidating, it’s actually not that uncommon and happens pretty regularly this time of year. The plume comes with some perks, like a reduced chance for a hurricane to form and maybe even some spectacular sunsets. Let’s take a closer look.
Hurricane season may be put on pause for a few days thanks to a massive plume of Saharan dust that’s making it way across the tropics.
NOAA Satellites/Flickr This is actually a fairly common occurrence. You may remember a few dust plumes blowing over in years past.
When the trade winds line up and the dust plume is large enough, it’s not unheard of for the dust to travel thousands of miles across the Atlantic.
NASA Earth Observatory/Flickr Especially from late spring into early fall.
The dust itself is harmless.
Enrique Díaz / 7cero/Getty Images Although if it does reach the United States, some coastal areas could see a reduced air quality.
The good news is that it will temporarily change weather patterns - hurricanes, in particular.
InterNetwork Media/Getty Images For a hurricane to form, it needs very little wind shear and a very moist atmosphere.
The warm, dry desert air and intense wind shear propelling the dust plume is basically a visible indicator that the area isn’t going to be spawning any hurricanes any time soon.
Tetra Images/Getty Images Great news!
The perk of the plume means those in the coastal areas will be treated to some truly stellar sunrises and sunsets.
Josh Reppel/Getty Images The dust particles in the atmosphere will reflect light, resulting in some colorful sunrises and sunsets.
So enjoy the beautiful sunsets for the next few days and be glad we can take a break from hurricane watch.
Aaron Dore/Google Even if it is just a brief break.
Where’s your favorite spot to watch the sunset in Louisiana? Let us know in the comments below!
NOAA Satellites/Flickr
This is actually a fairly common occurrence. You may remember a few dust plumes blowing over in years past.
NASA Earth Observatory/Flickr
Especially from late spring into early fall.
Enrique Díaz / 7cero/Getty Images
Although if it does reach the United States, some coastal areas could see a reduced air quality.
InterNetwork Media/Getty Images
For a hurricane to form, it needs very little wind shear and a very moist atmosphere.
Tetra Images/Getty Images
Great news!
Josh Reppel/Getty Images
The dust particles in the atmosphere will reflect light, resulting in some colorful sunrises and sunsets.
Aaron Dore/Google
Even if it is just a brief break.
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Address: Louisiana, USA
