EPA says Saharan dust will continue until Sunday

Feb 28, 2026 News

(Kaieteur News) – The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced Friday that the Saharan dust is still impacting areas such as Georgetown, and Whim Berbice and will persist until Sunday March 1.

In a statement on its Facebook page, the agency said that air quality across the Low Coastal Plain, including the capital city and its surrounding areas are still affected.

EPA says Saharan dust will continue until Sunday

Map showing the PM2.5 Prediction.

“Currently, air quality in Georgetown and the Whim area in Berbice is within the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range. The EPA’s air quality sensors in Eccles and Central Georgetown have recorded PM2.5 levels in excess of the WHO Guidelines for good air quality,” EPA said.

Elevated levels of particulate matter caused by the Saharan Dust and high humidity are the contributing factors to the decline in air quality. The Saharan air layer is made up of fine particles of dirt, sand and dust from North Africa and is transported across the Atlantic Ocean by air currents in the upper atmosphere.

“This phenomenon has led to the visible haze observed across the low coastal plain, including Georgetown and its environs. These conditions are projected to persist until late evening on Sunday, March 1, 2026. Further information on Saharan dust and its impacts can be found at https://www.myfoxhurricane.com/saharan_dust_car.html,” the agency explained.

In this regard residents are strongly advised to adhere to the precautions outlined to minimise exposure. Outdoor activities should be limited, especially for the sensitive groups such as children, the elderly and individuals who suffer from respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

Secondly, a mask should be worn outdoors especially if outside for extended period of time. The EPA is also advising that persons monitor their health and seek medical advice if they experience any difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or other related symptoms. Meanwhile the agency will continue to monitor the air quality conditions and provide updates as necessary.

For a near real-time update on the air quality index near you, visit the EPA’s website: https://epaguyana.org/ and select ‘Your Environment’ and then click ‘air quality data’.

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air quality, EPA, Monitor, Saharan dust

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