Saharan dust cloud settles over the South—public warned to stay indoors
The Georgia Department of Public Health is warning about potential health problems related to the Saharan dust cloud that has settled over the South for the next few days. According to CNN, it’s normal for Saharan dust to reach the US every hurricane season, but this year’s cloud is historic. Georgia health officials report the cloud is the densest it has been in at least 50 years.
Health officials urge the public, especially those with chronic lung conditions, to limit the amount of time they spend outside if the skies appear dusty or hazy. Face masks, in addition to preventing the spread of Covid-19, can also offer protection against the dust. The dust can cause eye, nose and throat irritation and wheezing in those with asthma and allergies.
North Carolina offers free fishing on July 4
Grab your fishing poles, North Carolina. The state’s annual free fishing day is July 4. On Free Fishing Day, residents and out-of-state visitors can fish without purchasing a license, though all other fishing regulations, such as length and daily possession limits and bait and tackle restrictions, still apply.
“Free Fishing Day is a great opportunity for families to enjoy some quality time together on the water,” said Christian Waters, the agency’s chief of the Inland Fisheries Division. “Fishing is a relatively inexpensive activity that anyone, no matter what their age or skill level, can enjoy.”
Three hikers missing Mount Rainier National Park
Three hikers from three separate parties are missing in Washington’s Mount Rainier National Park, the National Park Service reports. Matthew Bunker, a hiker from Seattle, was descending the mountain on skis when he disappeared on Saturday. Vincent Djie, a student from Indonesia, was reported missing June 19 and was last seen hiking the Van Trump Trail. Talal Sabbagh, of Seattle, was last seen hiking in the Paradise region of the park on June 21.
The National Park Service is coordinating search efforts with rescue groups and loved ones of the missing hikers. It is not requesting any public assistance in the search due to the hazardous conditions in the area.
Photo: Powerful dust storm in the desert of Arabia – Photo from Getty Images
