Sand From Sahara Causes Smog Over Most of the Czech Republic

The Czech Hydrometeorological Institute (ČHMÚ) has declared a smog situation in several regions due to high concentrations of dust particles linked to Saharan sand.

The affected areas include the Moravian-Silesian Region, South Bohemia, Brno, and Vysočina.

Authorities advise residents to limit strenuous outdoor activity due to potential breathing difficulties caused by the dust.

The Czech Hydro-Meteorological Institute said the sand, which increases the concentration of dust particles in the air, may be present in Czechia until Monday.

As of Sunday morning, data from the institute’s website revealed dust levels exceeding 100 micrograms per cubic meter in several locations across the country.

ČHMÚ declares a smog situation when at least half of a region’s monitoring stations record a 12-hour average PM10 concentration exceeding 100 micrograms per cubic meter, with no improvement expected within the next 24 hours.

“The situation’s development remains unclear,” ČHMÚ stated on Saturday, acknowledging the unusual nature of the event.

ČHMÚ urges residents, particularly older adults, young children, and those with respiratory illnesses or heart conditions, to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the smog event.

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