An Exceptionally Large Cloud Of Sahara Desert Dust Is Moving Across The Atlantic, Will Reach The US This Week

In Puerto Rico, for example, a wispy haze hung in the atmosphere.

These naturally occurring weather events bring both good and bad outcomes.

For example, the microparticles of dust can help fertilize the soil, particularly if they reach the Amazon basin, replenishing the region with nutrients. Similarly, according to NASA, these storms are beneficial in maintaining Caribbean beaches.

Conversely, the sudden influx of nutrients can cause toxic algae blooms in some bodies of water, depriving plants and animals of much-needed oxygen. Such an event is known colloquially as a "red tide," as the high concentration of algae gives the water a reddish hue.

However, the biggest benefit to these dust storms is that they can suppress hurricanes. Indeed, the layer of dust creates strong down draft around tropical storms, which in turn can prevent them into organizing into stronger storms such as hurricanes. However, it bears noting that these storms' overall effect on hurricane season is not fully understood.

Additionally, residents in populated areas affected by these dust storms can expect to see "spectacular" sunsets and sunrises, as the sun's rays filter through the clouds of dust.