Saharan dust cloud poses risk for people with asthma

A large dust storm from the Sahara has made its way over Spain and France to southern parts of the UK today - 16th March 2022. 

The plume is likely to reach southern parts of the UK from Dorset to Suffolk and the southern counties, especially Kent and Sussex. 

In extreme circumstances, this could leave some people struggling for breath and may cause coughing or wheezing. Extra care should be taken for those people with breathing conditions, such as asthma. It is important that you carry your reliever inhaler with you and continue to manage your condition with the preventative inhaler. 

You may see that there is a covering of the dust on cars and surfaces as the storm brings the Saharan dust down. In Spain and France, the air quality has been affected appearing red and hazy. 

Please, take care.