Brits are being urged to stay inside with their windows and doors closed as a rare weather phenomenon which could trigger coughing and wheezing sweeps across the UK
18:17, 06 Mar 2026Updated 18:18, 06 Mar 2026
Experts have warned Brits to keep their doors and windows closed this weekend (stock)(Image: Getty)
Britain is bracing for a rare weather phenomenon this weekend
A plume of Saharan dust is set to sweep across the UK, with many urged to stay indoors over fears it could trigger coughing, wheezing or medical emergencies. Asthma sufferers and those with lung conditions are being warned the fine dust particles, from air pollution, could trigger flare-ups and irritation.
The dust, carried thousands of miles from the Sahara, is set to paint the sky a vivid gold, amber and burnt orange, while temperatures could reach highs of 17C in parts of the country. Southern regions are expected to feel the brunt of the plume, which may leave a light coating of yellow or brown residue on cars, windows and surfaces.
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Elsewhere, dust levels are expected to remain lower, with largely normal rainfall forecast. Light winds and stable conditions, especially in southern and eastern regions, will slow the dispersal of particles, meaning locally generated pollution could linger, the Met Office said.
While the particles themselves are natural, health experts are warning that the plume could pose a serious risk for people with lung conditions. Brits who could suffer have been urged to stay indoors and shut their windows on Saturday and Sunday.
Dust may be left behind on surfaces (Image: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Asthma sufferers and those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are particularly at risk. Deputy head of health advice at Asthma + Lung UK, Karen Spillett, told The Sun: “Saharan dust could pose a serious risk to people living with asthma and other lung conditions this weekend. The fine dust particles from the Sahara can cause irritation to the lungs, which could result in people coughing and wheezing more or producing extra mucus.”
“This sort of irritation can result in asthma attacks and flare-ups of other lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).”
She added: “We recommend keeping windows closed and, if the dust is causing symptoms, to stay in where possible. If you do go out, consider showering and changing clothes when you come back inside in case you are carrying dust on your clothes.”
Exposure to Saharan dust could trigger breathing difficulties, experts warned (stock)(Image: Getty)
She also urged sufferers to refer to their self-management or asthma action plan and to know how to respond in the event of an asthma attack or exacerbation. “People with asthma should keep their reliever inhalers with them in case their symptoms get worse and should continue to take preventer inhalers as prescribed,” she said.
In total, around 7.2 million people in the UK have asthma, while an estimated 17 million live with COPD. Experts warn that even brief exposure to Saharan dust could trigger coughing, wheezing and serious breathing difficulties for those affected.
According to Asthma + Lung UK, on high pollution days, it’s recommended to limit outdoor activities and exercise to avoid breathing in too much polluted air.
Brits should also aim to go out earlier in the day when air quality tends to be better, and avoid areas where there’s lots of traffic. Drivers should keep their car windows closed, especially when driving in slow-moving traffic.