Dust levels have risen over the limit of 55 micrograms per cubic metre, meaning that people with respiratory problems, allergies, and especially children and pensioners should stay indoors until the dust cloud passes. Currently the levels are reaching up to 67 mg per cubic metre.

Symptoms of dust allergies include wheezing, burning eyes, and sinus problems. Sufferers should contact their doctor for the right treatment.

More information is available at the ministry’s air quality website.

The most severe episode of dust blowing in from North Africa was in September 2015, when the sun was blocked out entirely and the levels rose into the thousands of micrograms per cubic metre. Click here to read that story.