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Sahara Dust to Paint UK Skies Red
23 Feb
Summary
- Saharan dust is expected to cause 'blood rain' over Britain.
- Strong winds are carrying sand particles from North Africa.
- The phenomenon may leave dust on cars and tint skies orange.
Skies across Britain are anticipated to display a striking red hue as sand from the Sahara Desert is carried by strong winds. This phenomenon, known as 'blood rain,' is expected to unfold over the next 24 hours, with dust lifted by low-pressure systems traveling thousands of miles from North Africa.
While dramatic in name, the primary impact for most Britons will likely be a thin layer of dust on cars and a subtle orange tint to the sky. However, air quality could be affected in areas experiencing higher concentrations of airborne dust. Scientists note that the dust, once lifted high into the atmosphere, can travel vast distances.
This dust can be washed out of the atmosphere by rain, leading to 'blood rain' as raindrops collect particles on their descent. The UK can also expect milder, spring-like conditions this week, with temperatures potentially reaching 15 degrees Celsius in southern areas and even topping 17 degrees Celsius later in the week, unusually warm for February.
