22/02/2026
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
PUBLIC ADVISORY
AIR QUALITY- SAHARAN DUST
February 22, 2026
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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) hereby notifies the public that air quality across the Low Coastal Plain, including Georgetown and surrounding areas, has been adversely impacted from last night February 21,2026 when it reached the Unhealthy range. Currently, air quality in Georgetown remains in the Very Unhealthy range, while the Whim area in Berbice is experiencing Very Unhealthy conditions as well. The EPA’s air quality sensors in Eccles and Central Georgetown have recorded PM2.5 levels well in excess of the WHO Guidelines for good air quality.
This decline in air quality is primarily due to elevated levels of particulate matter (PM2.5), caused by Saharan Dust and high humidity. The Saharan Air Layer, which consists of fine particles of sand, dirt, and dust from North Africa, is transported across the Atlantic Ocean by air currents in the upper atmosphere. This phenomenon has led to the visible haze observed across the low coastal plain, including Georgetown and its environs. These conditions are expected to persist until late in the evening on Wednesday February 25, 2026. Further information on Saharan dust and its impacts can be found at https://www.myfoxhurricane.com/saharan_dust_car.html.
Residents are strongly advised to take the following precautions to minimize exposure:
• Limit outdoor activities, particularly for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
• Wear a mask when outdoors, especially if you must be outside for extended periods.
• Monitor your health, and seek medical advice if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or other related symptoms.
The EPA will continue to monitor air quality conditions and provide updates as necessary.
For a near real-time update on the Air Quality Index near you, visit the EPA’s website:
https://epaguyana.org/ and select ‘Your Environment’ and then click ‘Air quality Data’.