Dust from Sahara Dessert Blows South East, Pollution Alert

Air pollution in south-east England is likely to increase as the air flow carries North African Saharan sand to UK.

Kent is speculated to be worst affected on Sunday, said Defra (Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs) in a forecast.

Defra advices people suffering from lung and heart conditions to prevent any outdoor spending time outdoors and refrain from vigorous physical activity. Asthmatics may need more caution as they might be required to use their inhaler more often. If you experience discomfort, sore eyes, sore throat or coughing, then you should also consider limiting your physical activity.

According to Met Office weather forecast, "Air pollution levels may be locally high in the far east and southeast of England on Sunday with a southerly flow bringing air from North Africa to the southeast of England. This episode is considered to be primarily a result of Saharan dust."

Met Office also added that the south bound airflow is affecting UK, leading to warmer December in almost 70 years. The temperatures are speculated to be 10 degrees above normal.

When lifted by strong winds, Saharan dust can elevate to high altitudes and get caught in the clouds that comes back to the ground as rain. When the rain water evaporates, one can see a layer of dust on surfaces. However, this is not the only damage caused by Saharan dust. They are also contributing to lower air quality.

Defra said: "There is a risk of moderate or high levels of air pollution across parts of England and Wales on Thursday due to Saharan dust, although large uncertainties remain with the timing and amount of dust. Elsewhere, levels of air pollution are expected to be low."