Saharan Dust Alert

Air quality across Antigua and Barbuda is expected to fall to moderate levels Saturday as another surge of Saharan dust moves across the country.

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service said the deterioration would be caused by elevated concentrations of particulate matter associated with the 18th notable Saharan dust surge recorded for 2026.

The Air Quality Index is forecast to range from 51 to 70, with an Air Pollution Alert Level II in effect.

Forecasters said the health risk would remain low for most people. However, people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution, including those with asthma, should monitor conditions and limit prolonged outdoor exertion.

People with respiratory or heart disease, older adults and children are considered most at risk.

The public is encouraged to monitor updates from the Meteorological Service.

Air Quality Bulletin

Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service

10:20 am Friday 17 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: Saturday.

Synopsis: The air quality is expected to return to moderate levels due to particulate matter 2.5 and 10, associated with the eighteenth notable surge in Saharan Dust for the country in 2026. The health risk will be 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: 51 to 70

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: Saharan Dust to Reduce Air Quality in Antigua and Barbuda on Saturday.