Saharan Dust Storm Hits US Today
As if the coronavirus pandemic and economic downturn aren’t enough to plague a weary country, a massive dust plume, originating in the Sahara Desert, is heading for the southeastern United States. This gigantic dust cloud is estimated to be the most intense plume in the past 50 years. It has the potential to exasperate health issues in those suffering from respiratory ailments such as asthma. It’s also expected to greatly reduce visibility on the ground. The particulate matter, which are sizable dust particles, are not good for anyone to breathe and can irritate the respiratory tract even in healthy people. Those who are sensitive and have existing issues will be even more affected, and are advised, as with any bad air quality alert, to remain indoors. Experts fear the impact of this humongous dust cloud may add more of a burden to our already overwhelmed health care system.
Doug Garfinkel has been a writer for over 30 years, working on a wide variety of websites and publications. He currently works as a High School teacher in Great Neck, NY, while continuing to write.