Veil of African Dust Covers Athens, Southern Greece (photos)

Meteorologists are warning that a veil of African dust that has settled over southern Greece since Sunday will remain in place until Tuesday.
Images show the Acropolis in a yellowish hue as southerly winds have transferred the dust from the Sahara Desert.
Further south, the island of Crete has been particularly affected. Health authorities have warned that there will be an excess of the suspended particulate matter resulting from the African dust that is reaching the island.

According to forecasts from the National Meteorological Service, suspended particulate matter is expected to exceed the average daily value of 50 μg / m3. The fluctuating phenomenon will last until Monday before gradually declining.
The dust usually presents high concentrations of lead, zinc, chromium and vanadium. African dust has been associated with health problems in the Greek population
Hospitals receive more patients experiencing respiratory and cardiac problems as particles with dangerous substances easily enter the respiratory system.

The Ministry of Health has said vulnerable groups should be extremely careful.
Among these are adults with respiratory problems or cardiac conditions. Children with respiratory problems should limit any intense physical exercise, especially outdoors. Also, people suffering from asthma may need more frequent inhalations of their palliative drug, while people over the age of 65 should restrict their physical activity.
In addition to vulnerable groups, anyone who feels affected — experiencing coughs, nasal congestion or discomfort in the throat — should restrict his physical activity, especially if it is outdoors.