Saharan Dust Alert: Crete Braces for Weekend Air Quality Crisis

Friday, 8 May 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Saharan dust is expected to reach Crete this weekend, carried by southerly winds from North Africa. The Public Health Directorate and the Environment and Spatial Planning Directorate of the Crete Region have issued an advisory following recorded concentrations of suspended particulate matter in the atmosphere. Authorities recommend that visitors with respiratory conditions such as asthma, as well as elderly travelers and young children, limit time outdoors during peak dust hours. Keep windows closed when possible and avoid strenuous outdoor activity. If you must be outside, wearing a mask can reduce exposure. The dust may also reduce visibility across the island and leave a fine orange or reddish film on vehicles and surfaces. Outdoor dining terraces and swimming pools may be affected. Conditions are expected to be most noticeable Saturday and Sunday before improving early next week.