Apocalyptic red skies hit Greece: Saharan dust blankets Crete as deadly Storm Erminio sparks widespread chaos | Watch | World News –

A cloud of Saharan dust has spread over parts of southern Europe, leaving the Greek island of Crete under a reddish haze that has changed the appearance of its skies. Known for its clear blue weather, the island instead experienced dim light and reduced visibility due to fine desert particles drifting in from North Africa.

The timing comes just before the Easter travel period, which is a busy season for visitors and locals alike. The conditions appear to be related to Storm Erminio, which brought strong winds and heavy rain across the region. Similar effects have also been reported in areas near Greece, including islands such as Santorini, where skies have taken on unusual hues and daily routines have been affected.

A desert dust storm has spread red skies across the Greek island of Crete

Saharan dust events occur when winds lift fine particles from desert areas and carry them across the Mediterranean Sea.

These particles can travel hundreds or even thousands of kilometers before settling.In this case, weather patterns associated with Storm Erminio appear to have enhanced the movement of air masses, allowing a dense layer of dust to reach Crete. When sunlight passes through particles, it is scattered differently, which is why the sky appears red or orange instead of blue. Such events are not rare in the region, although their severity varies with wind strength and atmospheric pressure systems.

Streets, buildings and vehicles were covered in a thin layer of dust. Rain mixed with dust in some areas, causing muddy streaks to appear on surfaces.Visibility is sometimes poor, especially with the high level of dust in the air. Some residents used face masks while moving outdoors to limit exposure to fine particles. The weather was heavier compared to typical clear weather conditions.

Travel disruptions, flooding and regional impact across Crete, Santorini and Athens

According to what was reported by Reuters, it was observed that the travel process is affected during the time of the dust event. Ferry routes or flight routes between Crete and mainland Greece are affected.On nearby islands, such as Santorini, the conditions in the sky were the same. Horizontal visibility decreased with the presence of dust particles in the area.In the main part of Greece, heavy rainfall was seen in some areas due to the weather system.

Floods were present in the Athens and surrounding areas. The emergency response was seen in the Nea Makri area, where flooding was linked to the fatal accident.

How could this affect air quality and the environment?

Dust in the atmosphere may affect air quality, especially for people susceptible to respiratory diseases. Precautions can be taken to limit exposure or wear a mask while outside. Desert dust may contain minerals that contribute to soil formation elsewhere. This depends on the size and duration of their occurrence.