Residents of Antigua and Barbuda are being advised that moderate levels of Saharan dust are affecting air quality across the country, with conditions expected to persist until Wednesday.
The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service said the air quality has been classified as “moderate” because of elevated concentrations of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) associated with the seventeenth notable Saharan dust surge to affect the country this year.
According to the bulletin, the Air Quality Index is expected to range between 65 and 100, corresponding to an Air Pollution Alert Level II.
While the overall health risk remains low for most people, the Meteorological Service warned that individuals with respiratory or heart disease, older adults, children and people with asthma may experience adverse effects from the reduced air quality.
The advisory noted that air quality remains acceptable for the general population, but unusually sensitive individuals could face moderate health concerns.
Health officials are advising people with respiratory conditions, along with active children and adults, to limit prolonged outdoor exertion while the dust plume remains over the islands.
The Meteorological Service said it will continue monitoring conditions and urged the public to follow its forecasts and updates through official communication channels.
Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service
9:35 pm Friday 03 July 2026
Air Quality Index Based on Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) and 10 (PM10) Concentration
Location: Antigua and Barbuda
Air quality category: Moderate
Timing: Until Wednesday.
Synopsis: The air quality is at moderate levels due to particulate matter 2.5 and 10, associated with the seventeenth notable surge in Saharan Dust for the country in 2026. The health risk is low for most people; however, unusually sensitive people such as asthmatics need to be aware of potentially poor air quality and keep up with the latest forecasts.
Air quality index: 65 to 100
Air Pollution (Alert) Level: II
Sensitive groups: People with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly and children are the groups most at risk.
Health implications: Air quality is acceptable; however, for some pollutants, there may be moderate health concerns for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
Caution: Active children and adults, and people with respiratory diseases, such as asthma, should limit prolonged outdoor exertion.
Stay tuned to updates from the Meteorological Service via antiguamet.com, X (Twitter), Facebook, YouTube and Instagram @abmetservice. Also, stay tuned to ABS Radio and TV and other media platforms for updates.
Dale Destin
This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Moderate Saharan Dust Reduces Air Quality Across Antigua and Barbuda.