It is the first time this year that the phenomenon, which affects much of East Asia during the springtime months, was observed in inland areas of the Korean Peninsula. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Apr. 5 (Korea Bizwire) — Yellow sand was observed on an island off the western coast of South Korea early Friday, the Korea Meteorological Administration said.
The meteorological phenomenon, which originated in northeastern China and Inner Mongolia the previous day, arrived at Baengnyeong Island in the Yellow Sea and is expected to affect many regions of South Korea later in the day.
The agency warned of the phenomenon affecting most of the country by night and asked people to ensure they take steps to protect their health.
It is the first time this year that the phenomenon, which affects much of East Asia during the springtime months, was observed in inland areas of the Korean Peninsula. The airborne sand was observed on Ulleung Island in the East Sea on February 5.
On Baengnyeong Island, the level of PM10 air pollutants reached 144 micrograms per cubic meter at 8:00 a.m. and 155 at 8:40 a.m. Most of the yellow dust is PM 10, or particulate matter 10 microns in diameter or smaller.
The yellow sand is believed to be carried from deserts in China by westerly winds.
(Yonhap)
