With the African dust having “disappeared” Parnitha and Hymettos, Athens “woke up” on Wednesday (24.04.24).
The rare phenomenon that “struck” the entire country yesterday and “immersed” it in an orange veil, with eerie images from both Athens and Crete and Kalamata making the rounds on the internet, is expected to subside gradually from today.
According to the forecast data of the DUST/METEO system of the National Observatory of Athens, the strong Saharan dust transport episode named Minerva Red will show a recession during Wednesday.
The prevalence of west-northwest winds will result in the progressive transfer of high concentrations of dust to the Aegean, while on Thursday high concentrations of dust will be located in the Dodecanese.
The following forecast maps from the DUST/METEO system show the dispersion of dust in the atmosphere during the afternoon and evening hours of Wednesday and the morning hours of Thursday.
What the vulnerable should be aware of – Guidelines and precautionary measures
At the same time, the Ministry of Health issued instructions and precautionary measures against African dust on Wednesday.
The Ministry of Health recommends special attention to people at increased risk, who are more vulnerable to African dust, and urges citizens to keep windows closed when staying indoors.
In more detail, the instructions of the Ministry of Health are as follows:
A. Recommendations for people at increased risk
-People with respiratory problems
-Cardiac patients
-children as well
-people over 65 years old
they should avoid any physical exercise-activity outdoors.
It is also recommended to avoid staying outdoors, especially in areas with increased traffic.
People with asthma may need more frequent inhalations of reliever medicine. If symptoms persist, it is recommended to contact the attending physician.
B. Recommendations to the general population
Every person is advised to avoid any physical exercise outdoors and to limit the time spent outdoors especially in areas with increased traffic. During his stay indoors, doors, balcony doors and windows should be kept closed.
