Sarasota County has issued a precautionary statement regarding elevated particulate matter (PM2.5) levels due to impacts from Saharan dust. The levels may reach the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" category, per the Environmental Protection Agency's national ambient air quality standards for public health.

Saharan dust is the result of sandstorms in the Sahara Desert in north Africa, the largest hot desert in the world, which produce high-speed winds that lift the dust and can carry it thousands of miles. The dust typically impacts the Sarasota-Manatee region during the summer until mid- to late July.

The presence of the dust can result in hazy skies, but also spectacular sunsets. When it's particularly concentrated, it can turn the skies bright orange, like in Athens, Greece, earlier this year.

The general public is not likely to be affected, although those sensitive to PM2.5 should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion. Any health-related questions should be directed to your personal healthcare provider.

The air advisory is in effect through July 12.

For more information, call 311 or visit scgov.net.