Saharan Dust and Fog Impact Visibility Across the Netherlands

The Netherlands is experiencing a mix of weather conditions this Saturday, March 7, 2026, with dense fog in the northwest and sunny skies in the east and south. Saharan dust is also present, contributing to hazy sunlight.

Dense Fog Creates Hazardous Conditions

A yellow warning for dense fog was issued by the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) earlier today, though it has since been lifted. Visibility was severely reduced in some areas, particularly in Groningen, Friesland, around the IJsselmeer, and Noord-Holland. The fog and low clouds are expected to lift in most areas by late morning, though gray skies may persist in the north and northwest. KNMI reported temperatures between 6 and 8 degrees Celsius under cloud cover, while sunnier regions like Limburg reached 13 to 14 degrees Celsius.

Saharan Dust Affects Sunlight

The presence of Saharan dust is creating hazy sunlight across the country. This dust, composed of sand, dirt, and other particles lifted from the Sahara Desert in North Africa, is carried westward by African waves across the Atlantic Ocean. The Saharan Air Layer, as it is also known, can inhibit tropical cyclone development due to its dry air.

Regional Variations in Weather

Significant temperature differences are being observed across the Netherlands. While northern and western regions may remain overcast with temperatures between 7 and 11 degrees Celsius, sunny areas of Noord-Brabant and Limburg could experience highs of 16 to 18 degrees Celsius. Winds are generally light, shifting from north to northeast and remaining weak, though moderate at the coast.

Forecast for Sunday and Monday

Sunday and Monday are forecast to be mostly sunny and mild, with highs reaching 15 to 18 degrees Celsius in most areas. Northern coastal regions may remain slightly cooler. Fog and mist are expected to return overnight, spreading southward and reducing visibility.

Understanding the Saharan Air Layer

The Saharan Air Layer typically resides between 5,000 and 15,000 feet above sea level. NOAA’s satellites are used to track the movement of these dust plumes across the Atlantic Ocean. Visibility maps are also used to monitor the presence of fog, dust, and other aerosols that reduce visibility.