The mass laden with sand-like particles will begin to disperse on Tuesday, June 3rd, explained engineer Luis Hernández, of the Air Quality section, in a message on the entity’s social media.

The Institute assured that it will continue constant monitoring to report any changes or updates in the behavior of this phenomenon. It also clarified that Saharan dust affects the country year-round, however, its greatest influence is reached from mid-June to mid-August.

The entity mentioned irritation of the respiratory tract, throat, and eyes as negative health effects. It added that it can worsen some cardiovascular or cardiorespiratory disease symptoms and recommended that the vulnerable population wear masks and maintain good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing.

Meteorology and public health specialists advised that children, older adults, and people with health problems avoid outdoor activities during the days of highest concentrations.

Despite the health risks, meteorologists cited certain benefits from the situation, as the mineral particles that make up Saharan dust contain essential nutrients such as iron and phosphorus, which are deposited on soils and bodies of water.

Guatemalan experts linked this phenomenon to temporary improvements in fertility, which favors agricultural activity in some regions of this Central American territory. They also suggested that the presence of dust in the atmosphere can inhibit the formation of tropical storms by decreasing available humidity and increasing air stability.

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