Saharan dust expected to hit Texas this weekend causing hazy skies, irritating allergies

HOUSTON, TX - Dust from the Sahara Desert has spread across the Atlantic and is expected to reach Houston area by the weekend. The dust is now contributing to hazy skies in the Caribbean. Expect the haze to spread into Texas over the next few days.

Health warning: If you have allergies, Asthma, lung issues, COPD--it's advised to limit your outdoor activities.

“They need to know that this is coming this weekend and to be prepared for it," said Dr. Irvin Sulapas with Baylor College of Medicine.

The dry, dusty wave has moved from Africa and into the Atlantic Ocean. This air layer can also prevent the development of tropical storms--which may be just one reason why we aren't seeing any tropical systems in the Atlantic at this time.

There will be a haze over parts of Texas for the next few days and allergy suffers may feel the effects.

“The most at risk would be people with underlying lung conditions like asthma or people suffering from environmental allergies," said Dr. Sulapas. “A little bit teary, they may sneeze a little bit, the air will feel a little bit heavier than usual.”

On a good note, the hazy skies are supposed to create amazing sunrises and sunsets. If you do catch an image of the hazy skies over Texas, please share them with us--online and on our FOX 26 Facebook page, and with FOX 26 meteorologist, Mike Iscovitz.