Saharan Dust Turns Athens Orange, Affects Air Quality

A significant dust storm from the Sahara has blanketed Athens in a vivid orange haze, leading to health warnings and disruptions.

Dust from the Sahara Desert enveloped Athens, Greece, transforming the cityscape with an intense orange hue.
The dust storm, affecting Athens since April 23, 2024, is one of the most severe since 2018, causing air quality to deteriorate.
Health officials have advised the public to limit outdoor activities and wear masks due to poor air quality.
The phenomenon, driven by strong winds from North Africa, also brought unseasonably high temperatures and increased wildfire risks.
Scientists link the frequency and intensity of such dust storms to climate change and human activities.