A massive dust storm from North Africa has swept Cyprus and placed large parts of the island under a dense layer of dust.

On Friday, sharply increased particulate matter levels were measured nationwide. In several regions, the concentrations were well above the legally permitted limits, which is why health warnings were issued for the population.

The situation was particularly critical in Ayia Marina and in Paphos. There, PM10 values reached peaks of 656.6 and 373.2 micrograms per cubic meter of air, respectively. But other cities were not spared either: 332.7 micrograms per cubic metre were measured in Limassol, 162.9 micrograms in Nicosia, 144.7 micrograms in Zygi, 83.2 micrograms in Larnaca and 74.1 micrograms per cubic metre in Paralimni. This meant that all measurements were well above the permissible daily limit of 50 micrograms.

The responsible authorities pointed out that the dust consists of particularly fine particles that can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract and pose health risks. The population was therefore urgently asked to limit spending time outdoors to the bare minimum. Children, the elderly and people with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases were particularly addressed.

Employers were also held accountable. After a corresponding risk assessment, organisational or technical protective measures are to be taken for employees who work outdoors. It was also recommended to use appropriate personal protective equipment.

According to meteorologists, the dust comes from Libya and reached the island for the first time on Thursday. In western Cyprus in particular, pollution was classified as moderate to high, while in the Troodos region, very high values were reported in some places, in some cases well above the permitted limits.

The weather service said that dust pollution is expected to gradually decrease over the course of the day, especially in the Paphos area. At the same time, however, it was warned that another dust front is expected from Saturday. A particularly intense phase could develop from Sunday evening into Monday.

In addition, light rain and dense, dusty fog made it much more difficult to see on mountain roads. Motorists were therefore urged to exercise increased caution.

The authorities said that up-to-date information on air quality is still available via the official website and the corresponding app. The situation is being monitored on an ongoing basis in order to identify possible effects on public health at an early stage.



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Source: CyprusMail.com
Author: James Morphakis