A massive plume of Saharan dust is merging with a significant heat dome, creating a potentially life-threatening weather event across the Southern United States. This collision is trapping sweltering temperatures, with "feels-like" temperatures approaching 110 degrees Fahrenheit in parts of Florida and along the Gulf Coast through early next week.
The Saharan Air Layer, a mass of dry, dusty air originating over the African desert, has traveled over 5,000 miles across the Atlantic. This dust is now spreading across the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to reach South Texas by Monday. The dust was visible on Florida Department of Transportation cameras in Miami on Wednesday afternoon, and FOX Weather Correspondent Brandy Campbell shared footage of the dust blanketing the Florida Everglades on Thursday.
The dust acts as a thermal blanket, exacerbating the effects of the heat dome and leading to soaring temperatures. A Heat Advisory is in effect across the entire Florida Peninsula through Friday evening. Beyond the hazy skies and vibrant sunsets, the reduced air quality due to the dust could pose a risk to individuals with respiratory conditions.
The U.S. Virgin Islands will also experience the effects of the dust and extreme temperatures, with the local Department of Health issuing warnings to residents.
This widespread dust also plays a role in the current pause in the Atlantic hurricane season. The dry, dusty air typically suppresses the development of tropical storms.