As the European weather continues to surprise, a veil of Sahara sand is set to blanket Belgium on Saturday, March 22, 2025. This unexpected event comes with the warning from Elia, the operator of the high-voltage electricity grid, regarding potential fluctuations in electricity production, particularly from solar panels.
According to the Royal Meteorological Institute (IRM), winds have been carrying fine particles of Sahara dust across Belgium since March 21, impacting air quality and visibility. The fine dust, lifted by warm air masses from southern Europe, is not unusual for this time of year, occurring several times annually. However, the forecast predicts an increase in sand concentration on Saturday, leading to concerns about its implications for solar energy production.
Sébastien Doutreloup, a climatologist from the University of Liège, elaborated on the phenomenon, stating, “A depression over the Sahara has lifted a series of dust particles that are being transported aloft to our region. We have an air flow running almost directly from the Sahara right to us.” This atmospheric condition has echoes of an April event last year, which led to dramatic skies tinged yellow and orange.
While the effect of this sand cloud is difficult to predict, Elia’s preemptive warning urges both producers and large businesses to remain vigilant. The organization is hoping to avoid a repeat of last year's incident when a similar weather pattern unexpectedly diverted the sand cloud, causing an oversupply of electricity that needed to be managed actively. “The risks to the security of supply remain non-existent,” Elia reassured, although the situation is fluid and requires close monitoring.
Health professionals also warned about the respiratory risks associated with the dust cloud. Olivier Michel, a pneumology and allergy specialist at CHIREC hospital, noted, “These particles will enter the upper respiratory tract, affecting the trachea and bronchi. They may settle in the small bronchi and deep lungs, leading to both bronchial and pulmonary problems.” This advisory is particularly pertinent for vulnerable populations, including children and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Elia’s alerts reflect a proactive approach, as the impacts of environmental factors become increasingly intertwined with energy production. The fine particles are expected to partially obscure sunlight on Saturday, consequently diminishing the efficiency of solar panels, key to Belgium's renewable energy goals.
Furthermore, David Dehenauw, a meteorologist at IRM, confirmed that the sand's impact has been observed across various monitoring stations, particularly in Uccle, suggesting that while concentrations have not reached alarming levels, vigilance remains critical. As the weather stabilizes, the quantity of the airborne sand is expected to decrease after Saturday.
As the situation unfolds, drivers are also advised to take caution. If sand deposits are found on vehicles, they should avoid washing them immediately to prevent scratches to the paint, a common issue when washing off abrasive material. “We observe it in several areas throughout the country,” Dehenauw added, emphasizing that while the concentrations detected are not extremely high, they are enough to warrant attention.
In summary, the Sahara dust cloud presents a multifaceted challenge. It raises operational concerns for the energy sector while also posing health risks to the public. Elia’s proactive measures aim to mitigate the potential impact on electricity production, ensuring the stability of Belgium's energy supply during this atmospheric anomaly.
