The National Institute of Seismology, Volcanology, Meteorology and Hydrology (Insivumeh) reported that a new mass of dust from the Sahara It will enter the national territory this Monday, July 6, and will remain until Thursday the 9th, when it is expected to begin its dispersion and departure from the country.
According to bulletin PCPS-010-2026, the highest concentrations of suspended particles will be recorded between Tuesday, July 7 and Wednesday, July 8, a period in which the main effects on air quality could occur.
The dust of Sahara is a mass of warm, dry air loaded with sand particles and minerals. which originates in the Sahara Desert, in North Africa. Driven by the trade winds, the phenomenon crosses the Atlantic Ocean and each year reaches the Caribbean, Central America, Mexico and even the southern United States.
According to Insivumeh, these masses represent one of the main natural sources of particulate matter in the atmosphere and can increase the concentration of fine particles (PM10 and PM2.5), which remain suspended in the air and can affect health, especially in vulnerable people.
During your stay in Guatemala, the phenomenon can deteriorate air quality and cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, in addition to aggravating respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies.
Recommendations
Given these conditions, the National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (Conred) recommended:
- Avoid outdoor activities when a high concentration of dust is perceived.
- Use a mask if it is necessary to remain in open spaces.
- Keep doors and windows closed to reduce the entry of particles.
- Protect water tanks to avoid contamination.
- Stay informed through Insivumeh bulletins and official Conred channels.
DUST FROM THE SAHARA WILL ENTER THE NATIONAL TERRITORY AGAIN.
Learn more by entering the following link ➡️ https://t.co/BQk3pAGvQB pic.twitter.com/y39AM3V6iE
— CONRED (@ConredGuatemala) July 6, 2026
The Conred System indicated that it maintains permanent monitoring of the phenomenon together with the Insivumeh to promptly report any change in its behavior.
Fact: The season with the greatest presence of Saharan dust in the region occurs between mid-June and mid-August, when the trade winds reach their maximum intensity and favor the transport of these particles from Africa to America.
The authorities recommended to the population Keep an eye on the official bulletins of Insivumeh and Conred to know the evolution of the phenomenon and follow preventive measures as long as the dust from the Sahara remains on the national territory.
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