Sarasota County issues air quality alert

Sarasota County has issued a precautionary statement about elevated particulate matter levels resulting from Saharan dust.

Per the Environmental Protection Agency's ambient air quality standards for public health, the dust may reach levels unhealthy for sensitive groups. The general public is not likely to be affected. Those sensitive to fine particulate matter should consider limiting outdoor exertion. 

This air quality advisory is in effect through Friday, July 12.

Originating from the Sahara Desert in northern Africa, thunderstorms and cyclones produce high-speed winds that can lift the dust and carry it thousands of miles. Saharan dust usually impacts the area yearly during the summer months and continues until mid- to late July. 

Sarasota County Air Program reports are available from the air quality index at SCgov.net. It alerts residents in real time of current air quality conditions and pollutants. With four monitoring stations throughout the county, data is collected for ozone levels and other particulate matter that can impact at-risk residents such as those with asthma or respiratory conditions.