A fresh surge of Saharan dust is affecting air quality in Antigua and Barbuda, with conditions expected to persist through Sunday.

The Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Service has issued an Alert Level II advisory, noting that air quality has dropped to moderate levels. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast to range from 51 to 80.

Meteorologist Dale Destin confirmed it is the tenth dust event recorded in 2025.

While the general public faces minimal health risk, vulnerable groups—including the elderly, children, and people with heart or respiratory conditions—are advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure.

Moderate air quality may cause mild symptoms in sensitive individuals, particularly those with asthma or other respiratory issues.

The dust, carried by trade winds from the Sahara Desert, is part of a wider regional pattern this year.

Residents are urged to monitor updates via the Meteorological Service’s website and social media platforms.