Dust Plume from Africa in Gulf

[DGNewton]

We’re headed out in the Mardi Gras next week and wonder if any Gulf cruisers noted the Dust Plume from Africa?

Just wondering what the experience is like?

[Guest BasicSailor]

Not to noticeable with the naked eye.

[Homosassa]

The dust plumes happen every year and often extend to being over Florida and other Gulf states.

 

While the dust is not noticeable to the naked eye, the dust adds to gorgeous sunsets and sun rises because the sun's rays bounce off the dust particles.

 

The presence of the dust also inhibits the formation of tropical storms and hurricanes.

 

So enjoy the glorious reds and oranges of a dust influenced sun rise or sun set and cruise knowing the chance of bad tropical weather is greatly educed.

[DGNewton]

Thanks all - we haven't cruised the Gulf in some time - always go on the Southern or Eastern Carribean trips.  Thanks again.

[Homosassa]

The dust plume can go over the eastern and southern Caribbean and the Atlantic.

 

Its location depends on the wind speed and direction.

Edited May 22, 2022 by Homosassa

[talkorpi]

In the middle of the gulf right now on Vista. Horrible storms our entire first sea day - not seeing any dust because of all the rain! Hoping it clears out so I can see some of those sunsets y’all are talking about

[DGNewton]

2 hours ago, talkorpi said:

In the middle of the gulf right now on Vista. Horrible storms our entire first sea day - not seeing any dust because of all the rain! Hoping it clears out so I can see some of those sunsets y’all are talking about

Look at the radar, there is a low pressure circling around....tropic in nature but not named.

[bgrmini]

Make sure to bring a respirator, dust is very irritating to the lungs.