Sahara dust is affecting spring weather in parts of Germany on Sunday, especially in the south and west. The German Weather Service forecasts a milky-hazy sky, despite sunny conditions and temperatures up to 20 degrees. Meteorologist Andreas Walter warns of potential respiratory issues from fine particles.
After weeks of cold, many in Germany are enjoying the mild spring weather. On Sunday, temperatures are rising to 13 to 20 degrees in many places, around 10 degrees at the sea. However, Sahara dust is clouding the weekend, particularly in the south and west of the country.
The German Weather Service (DWD) in Offenbach forecasts a mostly sunny day with a milky-hazy sky in these regions. In the eastern half, it will be clear to cloudy, with partly dense cloud cover in the north and northeast. The dust originates from the northern Sahara, where near-ground winds stir it up and transport it into the atmosphere. There, it can hover at altitudes of two to ten kilometers for months.
"The strongest concentrations of the dust are indeed reaching southern Germany," said meteorologist Andreas Walter from the DWD. The dust is not toxic but contains small particles that can enter the lungs. Walter advises outdoor athletes like joggers not to exert themselves for more than a few hours, as this could lead to respiratory discomfort in people with pre-existing conditions. Drivers and allergy sufferers should also take care.
This phenomenon is not uncommon but is occurring now due to the current weather situation. The DWD emphasizes that the dust mainly impairs visibility and poses health risks without toxic effects.
