Sahara dust to persist across Guyana until Sunday – EPA

See below full release from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) hereby notifies the public that air quality across the Low Coastal Plain, including Georgetown and surrounding areas, is still being impacted by Saharan Dust. Currently, air quality in Georgetown and the Whim area in Berbice is within the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range. The EPA’s air quality sensors in Eccles and Central Georgetown have recorded PM2.5 levels in excess of the WHO Guidelines for good air quality.

This decline in air quality is primarily due to elevated levels of particulate matter (PM2.5), caused by Saharan Dust and high humidity. The Saharan Air Layer, which consists of fine particles of sand, dirt, and dust from North Africa, is transported across the Atlantic Ocean by air currents in the upper atmosphere. This phenomenon has led to the visible haze observed across the low coastal plain, including Georgetown and its environs. These conditions are projected to persist until late evening on Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Residents are strongly advised to take the following precautions to minimize exposure:

• Limit outdoor activities, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
• Wear a mask when outdoors, especially if you must be outside for extended periods.
• Monitor your health, and seek medical advice if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or other related symptoms.

The EPA will continue to monitor air quality conditions and provide updates as necessary.

For a near real-time update on the Air Quality Index near you, visit the EPA’s website: https://epaguyana.org/and select Your Environment’ and then click Air quality Data’.