Saharan Dust Blanket Descends on Turks and Caicos, Health Precautions Urged
- NewslineTCI
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
A thick plume of Saharan dust has settled over the Turks and Caicos Islands from as early as Sunday, bringing with it a wave of potential health concerns for residents.
The Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) has confirmed that the dust cloud, originating from the Sahara Desert and spanning approximately 2,000 miles, is currently impacting the islands and is expected to persist through midweek.
According to officials, excessive exposure to Saharan dust can lead to respiratory issues, skin and eye irritation, and even contaminate water supplies. Vulnerable groups — including children, the elderly, and those with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions — are especially at risk.
The DDME is urging residents to take the following precautions:
· Stay indoors as much as possible, keeping windows and doors closed to limit dust exposure.
· Use air filtration systems to improve air quality at home and in workplaces.
· Wear a face mask if you must go outside, and seek medical help if you experience any breathing difficulties.
· Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help your body cope with the dry, dusty air.
· Wear long-sleeved clothing and protective eyewear when outdoors.
· Wash your hands frequently to avoid transferring dust particles to your face and eyes.
· Secure and treat outdoor water containers to prevent contamination if they’re intended for drinking or household use.
Residents are also advised to remain vigilant and stay updated through official channels, including the DDME website at https://gov.tc/ddme/ and the department’s social media platforms.
“Protecting your health and safety is our top priority,” the DDME stated in a release. “We encourage everyone to take these simple yet vital steps to minimize the impact of the Saharan dust event.”
The dust plume is expected to linger for a few more days, with conditions gradually improving towards the end of the week.