Saharan dust to return to Guatemala, affecting air quality this week

Guatemala is set to experience the arrival of Saharan dust this week, a phenomenon that will impact air quality with low to moderate concentrations, according to the National Institute of Seismology, Vulcanology, Meteorology, and Hydrology (Insivumeh).

The dust's trajectory is being monitored using the SKIRON prediction model from the University of Athens, which projects its presence in the region until July 8. The initial influx is expected from Sunday, June 28, through Tuesday. A brief respite is anticipated mid-week, with a potential second wave arriving from Saturday, July 4, to Monday, July 6.

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The concentration of particles that will reach Guatemalan territory will range between 15 and 30 micrograms per cubic meter, which corresponds to low or moderate levels.

Projections indicate that the concentration of particles reaching Guatemala will range between 15 and 30 micrograms per cubic meter. Based on the model's scale, this falls into the low to moderate category, with higher concentrations defined as 25 to 100 micrograms per cubic meter. Insivumeh officials have clarified that these projected levels do not represent a severe risk to the country, and no emergency alerts or protocols have been activated.

Saharan dust events are a common occurrence in Guatemala, typically happening more frequently between June and August. While these events can affect air quality, reduce atmospheric visibility, and potentially cause health complications, particularly for individuals with respiratory conditions, the current forecast suggests a manageable impact.

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With the projected values, the phenomenon does not represent a considerable risk for the country. Furthermore, they indicated that no alert or emergency protocol has been activated.