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Saharan dust: it has arrived at the Gulf Coast and is moving north towards Arkansas

Dusty skies are heading north towards Arkansas and Oklahoma. It won't turn as gray and brown here contrasted to the Gulf Coast, but our sunsets may get a bit redder.

THURSDAY MIDDAY UPDATE

In the midst of scattered showers and storms, the U.S. Gulf Coast is watching dust from the Sahara Desert move in. Skies have darkened a bit along the shores.

Credit: KFSM - GOES16

GULF COAST

This is a look from Pensacola, Florida at noon Thursday, and along with the clouds, the Saharan dust is making skies slightly darker. 

EXPECTATIONS FOR ARKANSAS & OKLAHOMA

In Arkansas and Oklahoma, the dust will not be as thick. A reddish hue is likely at sunrise and sunset. The majority of the dust will be several thousand feet above the ground. However, some dust will will make it to the surface and may cause extra difficulty for those with respiratory illnesses and allergies. For most of us, it may feel like there are a few extra allergens in the air.

Credit: EARTHCAM

TIMING

Dust will start to become more noticeable in Arkansas' southern sky by sunset Thursday. It is expected to be thicker on Friday and Saturday.

Credit: KFSM

-5NEWS Weather

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