Air Pollution Levels Skyrocket As Saharan Dust Storm Blankets Malta
Not only have these past few days of Saharan Desert dust created a nuisance for drivers in the streets of Malta, but it has also propelled air pollution levels to ten times the recommended healthy levels, according to Environment and Resources Authority (ERA).
This could potentially affect people with respiratory conditions such as asthma since these particles can bypass the body’s natural defences, such as nasal hair and throat, entering the respiratory system and bloodstream.
Real-time air quality graphs depict a staggering surge in PM10 levels – particulate matter smaller than 10 micrometres – reaching an astonishing high of 514 µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic metre) on Wednesday morning.
The data captured by the ERA illustrate the early rise of particulate matter on Tuesday morning.
Starting from under 30µg/m3 at midnight, it surged rapidly to over 100µg/m3 by 10am, exceeding the numbers from Tuesday by more than 10 times.
With the worsening weather conditions, readings escalated significantly, surpassing 400µg/m3 early on Wednesday morning and peaking at 503 µg/m3 at 10am.
PM10 levels should not exceed an average of 45 µg/m³ over a 24-hour period, according to the World Health Organization guidelines.
The Saharan dust plume will continue for the next couple of days, “with another (weaker) plume predicted to follow on the 30th,” Senior Scientist at the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service Mark Paddington said.
The UK’s Asthma and Lung Association advises reducing outdoor activities and exercise during high-pollution days and opting for quieter streets away from heavy traffic whenever feasible. In slow-moving traffic, it’s advisable to keep windows closed to minimise exposure to polluted air.
Is the current weather affecting you in any way? Let us know in the comments