Saharan dust takes over - Hazy days, Texas heat exacerbated

Saharan dust continues to be on the move. The western Gulf of Mexico is under a deep layer of dust that, although it will erode as it moves north, then northeast, it will bring a batch of hazy days for Texas and others nearby.

There is a large plume of Saharan dust that is slowly moving onto Texas on Tuesday and Wednesday. The haze could start to take over tonight across Southeast Texas and stay through Thursday as it also takes over the Metroplex and northern Louisiana through the middle of the week. Expect hazy conditions and the hot temperatures to be exacerbated due to the dust. Make sure to limit your time outdoors.

The dust brings other problems like warmer temperatures and respiratory issues for those with preexisting issues. 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 lots of nutrients to forest and marine ecosystems, but it also brings lots of iron, which marine microorganisms, like algae, can feed off. As it grows, it can become toxic, making red tide bloom. The red tide can happen at any time of the year, but in Florida, it becomes an issue in the late summer and fall months once the microorganisms have settled and had lots to feed. This is something to watch out for, and our team of meteorologists will continue providing updates.