Saharan Dust Cloud Crosses Atlantic Ocean, Threatens Florida
NDTV
A massive plume of Saharan dust, the largest of the 2024 hurricane season, is moving across the Atlantic towards the Gulf of Mexico and Florida.
A massive plume of Saharan dust, the largest seen so far this hurricane season, is on its way across the Atlantic Ocean. This dusty giant is expected to reach the Gulf of Mexico and Florida by the end of the week, and forecasters say it could play a significant role in dampening storm formation.
The dry, dusty air associated with the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) is known to absorb moisture, which is a crucial ingredient for tropical storms and hurricanes. Experts believe this particular plume will hinder storm development as it travels from Africa towards the Caribbean and potentially reaches Florida.
While this might be welcome news for those hoping to avoid a stormy season, meteorologists caution that the impact of the SAL is temporary. These dust plumes are a common occurrence in the Atlantic basin during late June and early July, and their influence usually wanes by mid-to-late July.
