Saharan dust intrusions over southern Portugal: overall characterization and atmospheric synoptic patterns (2005-2015)

Abstract

Saharan dust intrusions over southern Portugal: overall characterization and atmospheric synoptic patterns (2005-2015)

Fragoso M, Silva T, Correia E, Vasconcelos J, Lopes A, Carraça MG

Saharan dust intrusions are a phenomenon responsible for several environmental impacts over the Mediterranean regions. Regarding the Iberian Peninsula, very scarce studies have addressed this topic in Portugal contrasting to the extensive literature produced by Spanish researchers (e.g. Díaz et la, 2017; Salvador et al, 2014; Alonso Pérez et al, 2011; Escudero et al, 2005). Among the most relevant impacts associated with north African dust intrusions are its adverse effects on human health and mortality (Kotsyfakis et al, 2019). The present study pretends to be a contribution to improve the current knowledge on dust intrusions over Southern Portugal (Central Alentejo region) focusing on two main issues: firstly, the characterization of the incidence of Saharan dust intrusions over the period 2005-2015, by analyzing its interannual, seasonal and monthly distribution; secondly, this study aims to analyse the synoptic meteorological conditions that favour these intrusions.