Due to Global Climate Change, Cyprus Will Experience More Dust

Meteorologists predict that Cyprus will experience even more dust in the near future. The reason lies in global climate change, increased desertification, and drought.

Dr. Mustafa Altunch, President of the Chamber of Engineers-Meteorologists (MMO), made special statements to Kıbrıs Postası about the brief but frequent transfer of dust in the region. According to the scientist, dust transfer holds significant importance for the global ecosystem.

Mustafa Altunch emphasized that due to global climate change and the resulting increased desertification and drought, it is expected that more and more dust will be transferred in the region in the future.

“The main reasons for dust transfer are drought, desertification, and land degradation, which pose a threat to many countries, including Cyprus,” the professor stated.

The expert also reminded that Cyprus is affected by desert dust from Africa (the Sahara Desert) and the Middle East, which are the two most significant sources of dust in the world due to their geographical location.

“Dust rises from deserts and enters the atmosphere through the ascending movement of low-pressure centers formed in deserts and strong winds,” noted the meteorologist.

At the same time, dust brought to the region from Africa and the Middle East causes migraines, asthma, and other respiratory diseases in people, as well as disruption to economic activities such as transportation and tourism, and complicates daily life.

“According to estimates, seven million people die worldwide each year due to poor air quality,” said the source quoted by the publication.

It's worth noting that last year, both in the TRNC and the Republic of Cyprus, there were regularly increased levels of fine dust particles in the atmosphere. Meteorologists' warnings about dusty weather can sometimes last for several consecutive weeks.