Orlando, FL – June 5, 2025 – A thick plume of Saharan dust swept over Central Florida this afternoon, creating hazy conditions and reducing visibility across Orlando.
The skyline on International Drive appeared shrouded in a grayish veil due to the dust, which originated from the Sahara Desert and traveled over 5,000 miles across the Atlantic via trade winds. This phenomenon, known as the Saharan Air Layer, occurs every summer.
The dry, dusty air not only diminishes air quality but also suppresses tropical development. The dust is expected to linger through the evening, with another plume forecasted to approach the Gulf of Mexico in the coming days. Meteorologists advise staying hydrated and limiting outdoor activities as air quality remains impacted.
