Every year, the Sahara desert dust reaches the Amazon, though it arrives in microscopic particles that are invisible to the naked eye, according to meteorological experts. Recently, residents in Amapá reported seeing a 'dust cloud' in the sky, leading to confusion about the phenomenon. Meteorologist Jeferson Vilhena from the Amapá Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (Iepa) clarified that this observation was not due to Sahara dust but rather to fog formed by high humidity and low temperatures.

Vilhena emphasized that although Sahara dust is transported to the Amazon, it remains in very small quantities, making it imperceptible to people. The transportation of this dust is particularly intense during the summer months in the Southern Hemisphere when the intertropical convergence zone shifts south of the Equator. This climatic pattern facilitates the movement of these microscopic particles, yet their impact on the local climate and environment is minimal and does not manifest visibly.

The confusion arising from the residents’ sightings highlights the importance of public education on meteorological phenomena. It points out the need for better communication between meteorologists and the community to prevent misunderstandings regarding significant climate events. As strange weather occurrences become more common, understanding the implications of such phenomena will be crucial for local residents and policymakers alike.