The Directorate-General for Health issued an alert to the Portuguese population due to the presence of suspended dust from the North African deserts that are affecting mainland Portugal. The phenomenon, which began on Thursday, September 3rd, is expected to last until Saturday, September 5th, according to meteorological forecasts and IPMA. The air mass crosses most of the territory, with greater impact on the Central and Southern regions, causing an increase in the concentration of inhalable particles, particularly the so-called PM10.
The DGS recommends that children, elderly people, people with chronic respiratory problems such as asthma and patients with cardiovascular diseases remain indoors while the dust is in the atmosphere, preferably keeping windows closed. For the general population, the health authority advises avoiding prolonged exertion, reducing outdoor physical activity and limiting exposure to irritants of the respiratory tract, such as tobacco smoke.
The dust transported from North Africa increases the presence of particles small enough to enter the respiratory system, which may worsen symptoms in vulnerable people. The DGS explains that this type of episode is natural and occurs with some frequency in Portugal, especially during spring and summer, when particles from the Sahara and Sahel are transported long distances by atmospheric currents. Those with chronic diseases should maintain their ongoing treatments and, in case of worsening symptoms, contact the SNS 24 Hotline at 808 24 24 24. The Portuguese Environment Agency provides updated information on air quality through the QualAr platform and application.
