Saharan Dust Storm Could Hit Louisiana by Next Week
Would it really be 2020 if we didn't receive a Saharan dust storm?
That's right, folks, it looks like Louisiana is due for another dose of dust gifted to us by the Sahara Desert. This has happened to us before, in fact, it's all many Louisianians were talking about around this time last year. Of course then, we weren't in the middle of a global pandemic and civil unrest within the country.
This go around, experts believe the Saharan dust storm of 2020 could hit southern Texas, Louisiana, and Florida as early as next week.
Newsweek describes this phenomenon as, "The result of tiny sand and mineral particles being swept up off the surface of the Sahara Desert by winds. These particles are then carried by updrafts into an extremely dry and hot air mass known as the Saharan Air Layer, which forms above the desert between late spring and early fall."
The strong winds of our extremely powerful Earth literally grabs this floating dust and essentially transports it right to our doorstep.
You thought this year's pollen was bad? Just wait until we're all breathing in Saharan dust after it's traveled nearly 7,000 miles. I bet even the biggest anti-maskers will be more than happy to finally buy and wear a mask.
Believe it or not, though, the possible dust storm could also benefit out state, especially those in southern Louisiana. According to Newsweek, some scientist believe that the dry, dusty Saharan Air Layer may help to suppress the development of hurricanes and more minor tropical storms.
We'll keep you updated at the dust storm gets closer.
In the meantime, check out one of my favorite improvised songs of all time below.