Wildfire smoke and desert dust combine to haze Irish skies
A film of Saharan dust has been left on cars, windows and outdoor surfaces across Ireland after a plume of desert air drifted northward this week.
The phenomenon has been particularly noticeable on windscreens and darker-coloured vehicles, where fine reddish particles are easily seen.
The hazy sunshine experienced in recent days is partly linked to the dust, but also to smoke from wildfires burning in Spain and Portugal, which has been carried northwards on upper air currents. The combined effect has produced milky skies and a subdued quality of light over parts of the country.
Saharan dust is lifted high into the atmosphere by strong surface winds in North Africa and can travel thousands of kilometres before settling back to the ground. While it can add colour to sunsets and skies, it also has practical impacts. When deposited over populated areas, it can reduce air quality and aggravate respiratory problems for vulnerable groups. In some cases, it has been linked to flight delays and additional aircraft maintenance.
Dust carried over the oceans can have a more positive role. Scientists note that it acts as a natural fertiliser by delivering nutrients such as iron, which stimulate blooms of phytoplankton. These microscopic plants form the foundation of the marine food chain and help regulate global carbon cycles.
The hazy conditions are expected to linger until winds shift later in the week.
