Health warnings have been issued across England and Wales as a cloud of Saharan dust arrives, threatening to create the phenomenon known as 'blood rain'. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) reported moderate pollution levels in South Wales on Thursday, with a risk of moderate or high levels elsewhere.
The dust, lifted from west Africa by strong winds, is transported at high altitudes and can travel thousands of miles. When it mixes with rain droplets, it falls to the ground as 'blood rain', leaving a thin layer of dust on surfaces after evaporation.
Public Health England advised those with existing heart or lung conditions to reduce strenuous physical exertion, particularly outdoors. Dr Sotiris Vardoulakis warned that while most people would not be affected, some may experience increased symptoms.
The Met Office noted that temperatures are exceptionally mild, around 7C above average, with parts of the UK feeling 14-15C. It was the fourth mildest start to December since 1960. The Saharan dust is expected to return on Saturday, and the warm weather may continue into next week.
