Orange skies and ‘blood rain’ are predicted to be more frequent in the UK due to the impact of climate change, according to an expert. The occurrence of blood rain results from dust particles from the Sahara Desert being transported into the atmosphere and then precipitating as rain thousands of miles away from Africa, leaving a reddish-orange residue on surfaces.
In recent times, residents in Spain, France, and the UK have witnessed unusual phenomena such as deep orange sunrises and skies filled with a yellowish haze. These hazy skies often lead to the deposition of “blood rain,” a rust-colored precipitation that leaves a fine layer of grit on vehicles and windows.
Hossein Hashemi, a Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Advanced Middle Eastern Studies, Lund University, highlighted that as climate change impacts the world’s largest desert, Europe is increasingly experiencing the consequences of an evolving environmental crisis.
The expert explained that while most of the dust typically moves westward across the Atlantic, there is a growing trend of dust spreading northward across Europe, especially between February and June.
Hashemi emphasized that rising temperatures are causing soil desiccation and desertification, making it easier for winds to carry fine particles into the atmosphere. Under severe warming scenarios, the amount of Saharan dust lifted into the air could surge by 40% to 60% by the end of the century.
He also issued a warning about the adverse effects of Saharan dust on air quality, stating that it can significantly surpass health guidelines by increasing levels of harmful particulate matter. This fine particulate matter, known as PM10, can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to respiratory issues and cardiovascular problems. Studies indicate that in countries like Spain and Italy, deaths related to PM10 pollution could be as high as 44% due to Saharan dust.
Furthermore, the presence of dust can hinder the efficiency of solar panels and disrupt transportation systems by reducing visibility for aviation and road traffic.
To address these concerns, early warning systems now offer forecasts up to 15 days in advance, enabling health authorities to issue alerts advising vulnerable individuals to stay indoors. Hashemi stressed the importance of both European and African governments taking proactive measures to address this shared environmental risk.
