Hazy skies will be hovering over portions of the Gulf and Southeastern United States through this weekend, at least! Why so hazy? Saharan dust will be sent flying over the region at times, thick enough to make a difference in the color of the sun and potentially to air quality. Expect some of the thickest dust to hover over Florida this weekend (forecast below).

This is not unusual for this time of year. Outbreaks of the Saharan Air Layer (SAL) typically occur in the Altantic during the summer months as strong westerly waves move off of Africa, sending dust out over the Atlantic. Depending on the speed and intensity of the SAL outbreak, these plumes of dry, dusty air can reach parts of the U.S. at times, even the middle of the country!

Heat

Hot and humid conditions will persist in the Southeast while the Saharan Air moves through. While the SAL does dry-out the mid-levels of the atmosphere, the bottom 5,000 feet is typically unaffected, meaning humidity won't change much even though there may be fewer storms.

Heat alerts have been issued where the heat index could top 108 - 115° in the days ahead.

These are dangerous heat index values, especially over 110°. Consider avoiding strenuous activity during the middle of the day, take many breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and drink plenty of water!

Highs could challenge several records in Central Florida in the days ahead. With highs approaching the upper 90s, it will be incredible hot, especially when humidity is factored in.