Dust from Sahara Desert
Approaches Galveston County

July 17, 2003

La Marque –– The Galveston County Health District’s Pollution Control Division, is issuing an “Air Quality Watch/Health Alert.” GCHD issues an alert, when it appears that there is the likelihood that air pollutants may reach levels that can have an adverse impact on public health in Galveston County.

As of Thursday a large and intense cloud of Saharan dust was moving rapidly toward Texas extending from the southwest Gulf of Mexico across the Yucatan and into the northwest Caribbean Sea. The dust is expected to have reached south Texas early Thursday morning and spread rapidly into much of the remainder of the state, including Galveston County, by late Thursday. A noticeable haze may be visible through Saturday.

This event may affect people who are sensitive to dust. Should that occur, people with heart or lung disease, the elderly and children should limit time spent outdoors. Persons with asthma are other chronic conditions should consult with their physician for other preventive measures.

Should the dust reach more dangerous levels in Galveston County, the Galveston County Health District will issue another news release.

For More Information Contact:
Kurt Koopmann
Public Information Officer
Galveston County Health District
(409) 938-2211
kkoopman@gchd.org