Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Science

Most Saharan dust is generated by 'hidden thunderstorms' high above the desert

When Saharan dust reaches the UK and Europe, as a huge country-sized cloud did over the past few days, it can transform the sky. Tiny particles drifting in the atmosphere scatter blue light while allowing reds and oranges to reach us intact, producing beautiful sunsets.

Most Saharan dust is generated by 'hidden thunderstorms' high above the desert
Image: Phys.org
When Saharan dust reaches the UK and Europe, as a huge country-sized cloud did over the past few days, it can transform the sky. Tiny particles drifting in the atmosphere scatter blue light while allowing reds and oranges to reach us intact, producing beautiful sunsets.

Originally published at Phys.org

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