“The Madeira archipelago has been under the effect of a natural dust event, originating from the deserts of North Africa, since 12/15/2024, reaching high intensity since yesterday [Tuesday], 12/17 /2024”, says a note from the college’s Environmental Science and Engineering department.

The maximum hourly concentrations of inhalable particles (PM10) were recorded on Tuesday, at São João station (Funchal), with 357 µg/m3 at 7pm (the concentration defined as the daily limit value by legislation for inhalable particles – PM10 is 50 µg/m3), indicates the department of the Faculty of Science and Technology.

Between 12pm and 1pm today, at the same station, there was still “274 µg/m3, keeping the air quality index in the red (poor quality)”, it is also mentioned in the note.

According to the Department of the Faculty of Science and Technology at Universidade Nova, the trajectory of suspended dust also reaches the continent today, “which already records high values ​​above 50 µg/m3 […] even in rural locations in the North and Center regions”.

“This natural phenomenon is expected to be short-lived but of high intensity. It should have an influence on the concentrations of suspended particles until the end of 12/18/2024 in the mainland and 12/19/2024 in the Madeira archipelago”, is added in the note.

Regarding air quality in mainland Portugal, the index currently “oscillates between average and poor, especially along the coastal strip”.

“Today, in mainland Portugal, there have already been hourly concentrations reaching 203 µg/m3 at the Campanhã station, in Porto”, it is also mentioned.

The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) had already warned today about the passage in mainland Portugal, during the day, of an air mass from the deserts of North Africa that carries suspended dust, damaging air quality.

According to the health authority, the situation will cause concentrations of inhalable particles of natural origin in the air to increase, affecting the regions of Alentejo, Algarve and the interior of the Central Region.

This pollutant (inhalable particles) has effects on human health, especially on the most sensitive populations, such as children and the elderly, whose health care must be increased.

While this phenomenon continues, the DGS recommends that the population avoid prolonged exertion, limit physical activity outdoors and avoid exposure to risk factors, such as tobacco smoke and contact with irritating products.

Due to their greater vulnerability, children and the elderly, as well as people with chronic respiratory problems and cardiovascular patients, in addition to complying with general recommendations, should, whenever possible, remain inside buildings, preferably with the windows closed.

In case of worsening symptoms, DGS advises contacting Linha Saúde 24 (808 24 24 24) or, if necessary, using health services.

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