The Meteorological Services at the Argyle International Airport in an advisory issued on Sunday January 28,
2024, advised that starting on Tuesday January 30, 2024, St. Vincent and the Grenadines will be impacted by
increasing levels of haze caused by a thick plume of Sahara dust. An initial occasional film of haze is
possible across the islands progressing to moderate haze in the evening with decreasing visibility across St.
Vincent and the Grenadines. Overnight increasing concentrations of Sahara dust from the plume will result
in very poor visibility by Wednesday, January 31, 2024.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment wishes to advise the public that particles contained
within the Saharan dust haze can cause the following health effects:
– a dry cough
– sore throat
– itchy, watery eyes
– sneezing
– runny nose.
The anticipated concentrations of the Saharan dust may severely affect persons with respiratory diseases
such as asthma and persons with pre-existing heart disease. The elderly and children are also vulnerable at
this time. Persons with respiratory issues and allergies are asked to always keep with them all medications,
including asthma inhalers, needed to manage their conditions. Persons should limit their exposure to the
Saharan dust by staying indoors when possible or wearing a dust mask if they must go outdoors.
Affected persons should seek medical attention at their nearest health care center if they experience
worsening symptoms because of increasing levels of Saharan dust.