The National Meteorological Service (SNM) in San Juan reported that a new mass of Saharan dust will arrive in Puerto Rico this weekend, causing hazy skies, reducing rainfall activity, and potentially affecting air quality. According to the latest forecast, weather conditions will remain relatively stable until Saturday, with east and southeast winds bringing patches of humidity to the region. This will favor the occurrence of brief showers during the early morning and morning hours over the US Virgin Islands and eastern Puerto Rico, while isolated rains are expected in the afternoon over interior, north-central, and northwest areas of the island.
The SNM indicated that humidity levels will remain normal to slightly below normal for this time of year, resulting in light and localized precipitation. However, the scenario will change with the arrival of the Saharan air layer, which will reduce the formation of showers during the weekend and limit rain to brief, wind-driven showers. The SNM warned that high concentrations of Saharan dust will cause hazy skies, reduced visibility, and poor air quality, especially for people with asthma, allergies, and respiratory diseases.
The agency urged residents and visitors to follow health recommendations during the dust event. Temperatures will remain high during the next few days, especially in the late morning and afternoon.