The first major Sahara dust episode of 2026 has begun to cover Cyprus, with atmospheric sensors recording record-breaking concentrations that have severely impacted air quality and visibility across the island.
The Cyprus Atmospheric Remote Sensing Observatory (CARO), part of the Eratosthenes Centre of Excellence, reported on Tuesday that dust concentrations in the lower atmosphere have exceeded 2,000 μgr/m³.
These particles particularly cover the first two kilometres above the ground, reducing vertical visibility to less than one kilometre.
According to the MONARCH dust forecast model, the phenomenon is expected to peak in Limassol during Tuesday evening.
Experts warned that ground-level concentrations could reach 500 μgr/m³, a figure ten times higher than the safety limits established by the Department of Labour Inspection.”
The phenomenon began in recent days and is peaking today, significantly affecting air quality and visibility,” the observatory team stated.
The current episode is being influenced by a weather system that has also brought rainfall to parts of the island. Meteorologists expect this to lead to “wet deposition,” where rain carries the suspended dust to the ground, potentially clearing the atmosphere more quickly.
While a gradual departure of the dust is anticipated on Thursday morning, a secondary wave is forecast to return and cover the island again later that evening.
The Department of Labour Inspection typically advises vulnerable groups—including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions—to avoid outdoor activities during such episodes.
Employers are also required to take appropriate measures to protect workers in open spaces.
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