Sahara Dust Storm Heads for Gulf of Mexico Could Impact Hurricane Formation
The biggest dust storm ever seen from the Sahara this hurricane season is heading across the Atlantic Ocean. The dust giant is expected to reach the Gulf of Mexico and the Gulf of Florida by the end of the week, and experts say it could play a key role in the formation of the storm.
The dry and dusty air associated with the Saharan air layer (SAL) absorbs moisture, an important element for tropical storms and hurricanes. Experts believe that this particular plume will block the development of storms as they travel from Africa to the Caribbean and reach Florida.
While this may be good news for those expecting a hurricane season, meteorologists warn that the SAL's effects are temporary. This dust is most common in the Atlantic Basin in late June and early July, and its effect diminishe...