Almost the entire country was “covered” by the African dust, with the images recorded in various areas being unprecedented and eerie, taken from a science fiction film.
An eerie scene was witnessed today (23/04), by the residents of Lekanopedi, who looked up to the Attic sky. Athens was smothered in African dust, which created a suffocating atmosphere that endangered vulnerable groups.
It is characteristic that the cloud of dust engulfing the capital makes it particularly difficult to see all the way to the sea, while in combination with the high temperatures the situation becomes unbearable.
See photos of enikos.gr readers from Keratsini and Perama
Perama
The images are eerie Dove and Sepolia caused by African dust, as you can see in the photos and video sent by enikos.gr readers.
Sepolia
Dove
Maroussi
Rentis
Hawk
Transformation
See photos and videos from Kalamata
The same image was recorded – so far – in Kalamata, Ilia, Preveza and Patras.
In particular, the sky in Kalamata was painted orange, due to the African dust that “suffocated” the city today, or which refers to… Cairo.
The Saharan dust has caused unprecedented and eerie images, while the atmosphere is suffocating especially for those with respiratory problems.
The atmosphere is suffocating in Ilia
African dust and mud rain in Preveza
Under the “umbrella” of African dust, everyday life in the city of Preveza flows, while occasional mud showers also occur.
Apocalypse images in Patras as well
The temperature at noon on Tuesday had “climbed” to 30 degrees Celsius in Patras, where combined with the strong hot wind that blows and the African dust, they compose a suffocating atmosphere and create eerie images.
African dust “covered” Corinthia
Unprecedented images in Nafplion as well
One of the most serious episodes of transport of African dust that have been recorded occurred in Nafplio and the wider region of Argolis at noon on Tuesday, April 23.
Health risks and ways of protection – Recommendations of the Hellenic Pulmonology Society
African dust affecting Greece is a relatively frequent phenomenon, particularly 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.
This natural event may have significant health effects of the inhabitants of our country, mainly through the degradation of air quality, he says the Hellenic Pulmonology Society (HPS).
He notes that African dust carries particles in a wide range of sizes, such as PM10, PM2.5 or even much smaller, while it 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 conditions respiratory diseases they are particularly vulnerable during periods of increased dust levels and this is also illustrated by increased hospital admissions.
Special attention is required for residents of urban centers and areas with already low air quality, as reported by APE-MPE.
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.
It is important that citizens, especially those with respiratory problems, to take precautions during periods of increased levels of African dust.
Instructions
Here are some guidelines to help you minimize the health effects of the phenomenon:
Stay informed. Monitor air quality reports and weather forecasts to know when African dust levels are expected to be high.
Limit outdoor activities. If possible, avoid spending extended periods of time outdoors when dust levels are high, especially during windy days when particles are more likely to become airborne.
Close the windows and doors. While homes and workplaces should generally be ventilated, during African dust peak periods, ventilate a little in the morning and then keep windows and doors closed to prevent dust particles from entering your home or workplace. If you have one, use air cleaners or filters to improve indoor air quality.
Use masks. When going outside, especially in dusty conditions, consider wearing a mask to reduce inhalation of dust particles.
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water.
During periods of increased dust levels, it is highly recommended that people with pre-existing respiratory conditions, take precautions to minimize health effects from 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 care is recommended for asthmatics due to spring allergies.
Patients with COPD they may need to increase palliative care with inhaled medications.
