The atmosphere is suffocating in most of the country, with African dust afflicting Athens but also areas of the province such as Crete and Kalamata.
The African dust, which has been visiting our country for the last few hours, has already covered several areas, creating an explosive cocktail for the residents.
In many cities, the atmosphere is suffocating and visibility is limited, with the phenomenon that has been ongoing since yesterday Monday, peaking today, Tuesday (23/04). In fact, in addition to the greatly increased concentrations of dust, mud showers are also expected to occur, mainly in the north and west of the country.
Especially in the Messinian capital, the images that come are eerie, with the sky reminiscent of a Far West movie set.
The situation is also difficult in areas of Ilia, with the African dust having obscured the sky, as can be seen from images in the port of Katakolo, on the beach of Karouta and in the area of Zaharos.
Landscape in the fog and in Chania with the African dust being intense and the atmosphere suffocating. In fact, today the mercury in the city exceeded 35 degrees Celsius.
Photos from Athens show the new transport of dust particles from the Sahara, composing an almost eerie scene for the city, more or less afflicting the majority of citizens “with significant health effects through the degradation of air quality”, as pointed out by the Hellenic Pulmonology Society (HPE).
A huge cloud of dust has covered the capital since early Tuesday morning, with the atmosphere being particularly suffocating.
African dust and mud rain in Preveza
Similar images come from the city of Preveza, where the sky turned gray from the high concentration of African dust.
Cars have been covered by the African dust, which in combination with the cloudiness that prevails greatly limits visibility.
Who are at greater risk?
Experts address warnings regarding the effect of African dust, which has once again flooded the atmosphere of our country, especially on the health of those who belong to vulnerable groups.
According to the Hellenic Pulmonology Society, African dust affecting Greece is a relatively frequent phenomenon, especially when meteorological conditions favor the transport of dust particles from the Sahara desert.
The frequency and intensity of African dust phenomena in Greece can vary from year to year, from 7 to 20 episodes (average 13 episodes/year), depending on atmospheric conditions and the amount of dust transported from the Sahara. In general, it is not unusual for Greek space to be affected by African dust.
But, as the Hellenic Pulmonology Society notes, this natural event can have significant effects on the health of the inhabitants of our country, mainly through the degradation of air quality. African dust carries particles in a wide range of sizes, such as PM10, PM2.5 or even much smaller, and can also entrain pollutants from the atmosphere. An increase in particulate matter in the atmosphere can worsen respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and allergies. People with pre-existing respiratory conditions are particularly vulnerable during periods of increased dust levels and this is reflected in increased hospital admissions.
As pulmonologists note, special attention is required for residents of urban centers and areas with already low air quality.
How does African dust affect our body?
Respiratory effect. One of the primary health effects of African dust is its effect on respiratory health. Fine dust particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. For people with conditions such as asthma, bronchitis or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), exposure to these particles can worsen symptoms, leading to shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing and chest discomfort.
Allergies and irritation
African dust can cause allergic-type reactions in some people, respiratory tract irritation, nasal congestion, sneezing and watery eyes. People with allergies or sensitivities to environmental factors may experience increased symptoms during periods of increased levels of African dust.
Cardiovascular effects
In addition to respiratory problems, exposure to African dust has been linked to cardiovascular problems. Particulate matter can contribute to inflammation, oxidative stress, and vasoconstriction, which can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases, especially in vulnerable populations.
Effect on the immune system
Prolonged exposure to African dust can also affect the immune system, making people more vulnerable to respiratory infections and other illnesses. The inflammatory response caused by dust particles can weaken the body’s defenses and make it harder to fight pathogens.
Long-term health risks
Chronic exposure to African dust and its associated pollutants has been associated with long-term health risks, including respiratory disease, reduced lung function, cardiovascular disorders, and even some types of cancer. Continuous exposure to high levels of dust particles can have cumulative health effects over time. According to a 2020 review of the impact of dust on air quality in Europe, an estimated 42,000 deaths/year are attributed to dust, while in Mediterranean countries it has been estimated that 27-44% of the number of deaths are related to PM10 particles it is due to African dust.
Precautions
It is important that citizens, and especially those with respiratory problems, take precautions during periods of increased levels of African dust. Here are some guidelines to help you minimize the health effects of the phenomenon:
During periods of increased dust levels, it is highly recommended that people with pre-existing respiratory conditions take precautions to minimize the health effects of exposure to dust particles.
Asthma patients may need to increase the dosage or frequency of taking inhaled medications based on the control plan recommended by their doctor to reduce symptoms. It is pointed out that at this stage special attention is recommended to asthmatics, due to spring allergies.
Patients with COPD may need to increase palliative care with inhaled medications.
