A dust plume from the Sahara Desert is set to arrive in the UK this week, potentially creating stunning sunrises and sunsets as well as what is known as “blood rain.”
Fine dust and sand particles, lifted thousands of miles by winds from North Africa, will contribute to a unique atmospheric phenomenon.
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, “Dust in the air is expected to continue moving across the UK today and into tomorrow. This could lead to hazy skies and, in some cases, a build-up of dust on surfaces such as cars, especially if showers occur.”
During sunrise and sunset, this dust can turn the sky into deep shades of gold and orange.
“Dust particles are highly efficient at scattering sunlight, significantly contributing to the stunning red hues of sunsets,” says Dr. Claire Ryder, an Associate Professor of Mineral Dust Processing at the University of Reading.
“The iron oxides in the dust absorb blue light, further enhancing the red color in the sky.”
These iron oxides can even lead to blood rain, although the sight may not be as dramatic as it sounds.
“Despite the ominous name, this is a simple phenomenon,” explained Ryder. “When rain falls through dust-laden air from the Sahara, it picks up tiny reddish-brown particles, leaving rusty-orange stains on cars, windows, and garden furniture.”
“This explains why your car may appear slightly muddy after the rain showers this week.”
While Friday’s rain could lead to a type of blood rain in the UK, the Japan Meteorological Agency has stated that it is unlikely to be vividly red.
Typically, dust-laden rain in the UK is present in such low concentrations that the droplets appear normal to the naked eye.
You might want to delay that car wash until the weekend to avoid needing multiple cleanings!
This Saharan dust not only affects your car but can also impact air quality, increasing particulate matter, or pollution, in the atmosphere.
With pleasant spring weather, weak winds in the south and east of the UK may cause dust to linger and accumulate in certain areas.
Fortunately, the Japan Meteorological Agency assures that there are no significant health concerns, though individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions might experience slight air quality degradation.
While it may seem surprising, it’s not uncommon for Saharan dust to find its way to the UK. When sandstorms in North Africa interact with specific wind patterns, sand travels northwards.
Mr. Ryder noted, “Over the next few days, southerly winds ahead of an advancing front will push the dust plume across the UK. Current forecasts suggest that this dust could linger into Sunday night.”
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
