African dust in the Balearic Islands is deteriorating air quality across the archipelago. In response, the Govern (Balearic Government) recommends reducing intense outdoor physical activity, particularly among children, older people and those with cardiorespiratory conditions, while continuing to monitor the episode closely.
Forecasts indicate that the episode of African dust in the Balearic Islands will continue until at least this Wednesday, although it could persist over the coming days if there is no rainfall. In the event of rain, the airborne dust is expected to clear more quickly.
Air quality reaches poor levels across all the islands
Monitoring stations within the air quality control network recorded PM10 particle concentrations above 50 micrograms per cubic metre on Monday, the threshold at which the public is informed. These particles, caused by an intrusion of air masses from North Africa, have pushed air quality to poor levels, according to the European Air Quality Index.
The forecast for Tuesday estimates hourly surface dust concentrations of between 5 and 200 micrograms per cubic metre at different points across the archipelago. Although this is a natural phenomenon and does not represent a particularly serious situation, the authorities recommend taking precautionary measures to minimise exposure to these particles.
The Regional Ministry for Business, the Self-Employed and Energy will continue to monitor the evolution of the African dust episode in the Balearic Islands and will update the information in line with measurements and weather forecasts.
Recommendations during the African dust episode in the Balearic Islands
The Balearic Government advises children, older people and those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions to avoid prolonged or intense physical exertion outdoors while the episode persists.
The rest of the population is also advised to reduce prolonged or intense outdoor physical activity if symptoms such as coughing, throat irritation or breathing difficulties occur.
It also recommends moving organised physical activities held by schools and sports centres indoors and considering the postponement of outdoor sporting events while the African dust episode in the Balearic Islands continues, without prejudice to any recommendations issued by the health authorities due to the high temperatures.
Leave A Comment