AQI: Saharan dust impacts air quality

Saharan dust is often transported northward from the desert to the UK and Ireland, and it has an impact on our air quality.

Strong winds over North Africa can stir up large amounts of dust, with long-range transport of high concentrations affecting parts of Northern Europe for several days.

On some occasions, the dust travels far enough north to make a noticeable impact on us in the UK and Ireland. With vivid sunsets as sunlight hits the dust, and also a hit to air quality with particulates growing in number.

During one event, according to our Air Quality Index (AQI) which you can find inside the app if you scroll down below the UV Index and Pollen, the air quality dropped to moderate or poor in places.

If rain coincides with the dust, there may even be spots of “blood rain”. “Blood rain” is when the Saharan dust is precipitated out of the air and falls to the ground with the raindrops.

Dust deposits may be noticeable on your cars, so don't bother with a car wash today! Check the WeatherRadar to see exactly where it may rain.

A more positive result of the dust in our air are the intense and vivid colours are possible during sunset and sunrise so next time it happens don't forget to send in your shots for us to feature!