Meteorologists said atmospheric conditions over the eastern Mediterranean are carrying air masses laden with desert dust from North Africa toward Greece. While the dust will be most noticeable in the upper atmosphere, smaller concentrations are also expected closer to ground level.The event began on Monday, July 27, and is forecast to gradually weaken by Wednesday, July 29, as changing atmospheric circulation disperses the dust.
Regions expected to experience higher dust concentrations
AtmoHub forecasts elevated dust levels on Tuesday across:
- Central Greece
- Attica
- The Peloponnese
- Crete
- Ionian Islands
- Cyclades
- Dodecanese
The agency noted that southern Peloponnese, including Laconia, Messenia, Achaea and Argos, may briefly experience increased dust concentrations at ground level, with air quality reaching the threshold of approximately 50 μg/m³, considered marginally degraded.
Limited impact expected at ground level
Current forecasts indicate that most of the dust will remain in higher atmospheric layers, limiting its effect on PM₁₀ particulate concentrations near the surface across most regions.Nevertheless, localised increases in airborne particles remain possible, particularly in parts of the southern Peloponnese.
Health advice
AtmoHub advises people in vulnerable groups—including those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, older adults and young children—to monitor forecasts and remain aware of local air quality conditions, especially in areas where dust concentrations temporarily increase.Residents can follow the latest forecasts and monitor the movement of the Saharan dust plume using AtmoHub’s online portal, which incorporates data from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS).