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Saharan dust headed toward the Jacksonville area: Here’s what to expect

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Saharan dust is marching across the Atlantic Ocean.

The dust plume should arrive this weekend.

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The Action News Jax First Alert Weather Team says this is how Saharan dust impacts the tropics:

  • Generally limits tropical storms and hurricanes
  • The dry air can weaken a storm
  • Strong winds can increase vertical wind shear
  • Hazy skies create nice sunrises and sunsets

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Saharan dust impacts on the tropics

However, it will slightly lower the air quality and could cause increased breathing issues for sensitive groups.

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It should hang around through early next week.

This is our first big batch of dust this year, and we will get more plumes of dust as we enter the summer months.

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