Saharan dust takes over Florida

Florida will need to be dusted off next week after a layer of Saharan dust blankets the state over the weekend. This dust will impact the weather conditions.

This weekend promises to be a dry one across Florida. Temperatures will be hot, well above average for the entire state and hotter for the western half as the winds will be from the east-southeast, having plenty of time to warm as they travel from the east coast to the west coast over land. Tampa through Fort Myers' highs will be between the mid to upper 90s on Saturday. Meanwhile, the rest of the state is expected to be around the mid-90s. Make sure to limit your time outdoors.

Making this heat unbearable is a high-pressure system over the surface that will bring sinking air. This usually suppresses deep thunderstorm activity, but when combined with a layer of Saharan dust, temperatures will be slightly warmer as well, with no chance of showers, especially on Saturday. On Sunday, the chance for showers returns, especially around the Tampa Bay area.

The dust also poses other problems, including respiratory issues for individuals with preexisting conditions. You can take us with you on your vacation and know how the Air Quality Index will be at the location you will be visiting, anywhere in the world! If your eyes get watery or itchy... blame it on the dust!

Saharan dust brings a wealth of nutrients to forest and marine ecosystems. Still, it also carries a significant amount of iron, which marine microorganisms, such as algae, can utilize for food. As it grows, it can become toxic, making the red tide bloom. The red tide can occur at any time of the year, but in Florida, it becomes a significant issue in the late summer and fall months, when the microorganisms have settled and have ample food to feed on. This is something to watch out for, and our team of meteorologists will continue providing updates.