How dust storms affect air quality

What are dust storms?

Dust storms are atmospheric phenomena characterized by strong winds carrying large amounts of dust particles over a wide area, reducing visibility and potentially impacting air quality.

What causes dust storms?

Dust storms are primarily caused by strong winds lifting dust particles from dry, loose soil or sediment surfaces into the atmosphere. Factors such as drought, desertification, and human activities like agriculture or construction can exacerbate dust storm occurrences (1)(2).

Extended and intense heat waves can also impact dust storms, as soil becomes desiccated, evaporation is increased, and weather patterns are affected.

How do dust storms form?

Dust storms typically form in arid or semi-arid regions where loose soil or sediment is prevalent. Strong winds, often associated with weather fronts or convective activity, pick up the dust particles and carry them over large distances.

How do dust storms affect air quality?

Dust storms can significantly degrade air quality by releasing large quantities of particulate matter into the atmosphere. These fine particles, known PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less) and some particles that are even larger, can remain suspended in the air for extended periods. When inhaled, these particles can penetrate deep into the respiratory system, causing respiratory irritation, exacerbating existing conditions such as asthma and COPD, and increasing the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Additionally, dust storms can transport pollutants, allergens, and other harmful substances, further compromising air quality in affected regions. When a dust storm affects a region, the sky may dramatically change colors, including brown, yellow, orange, red, or gray. Visibility may be impacted.

There is no conclusive evidence that PM2.5 found in non-anthropogenic (natural, non-human produced) sources like dust storms is less harmful than anthropogenic, or human-produced sources like vehicle combustion.

What are the health effects of dust storms?

Dust storms can have significant health effects, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Inhaling fine dust particles can cause respiratory irritation, exacerbate existing conditions, and increase the risk of respiratory infections. Dust storms can also carry allergens, pollutants, and potentially harmful microorganisms, impacting both short-term and long-term health.

How long do dust storms last?

Dust storms can vary significantly in duration, lasting from a few hours to several days, depending on factors like wind speed, the amount of dust available, and local terrain conditions.

How can I protect myself from poor air quality?

• Get a free air quality app for real-time air quality alerts and forecasts.
• Shut doors and windows and set the HVAC to recirculate mode.
• Contribute to your community’s outdoor air quality data.
• Stay indoors when air quality is poor; if you do need to go outdoors, wear a KN95/FFP2 mask.
• Run a high-performance air purifier to filter particles, gases, and other pollutants.