05/06/2026
The National Weather Service has officially lifted its Dust Alert as conditions improve across the Cayman Islands.
Following comprehensive testing, the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability, the Public Health Department, and the Department of Environmental Health confirmed that air quality remains safely within the Good to Moderate range.
Acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Mark Paramlall, said: “Firstly, I want to thank the teams at the Department of Environmental Health for their hard work; the data they collected across schools and the community gives us a good picture of air quality conditions during this dust event. We are reassured that readings have remained within the Good to Moderate range, and that indoor environments at our schools showed that our pupils had good air quality.”
While conditions are improving, The Ministry advises the following precautions, particularly for sensitive individuals:
🔸Individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory conditions should minimise prolonged outdoor exertion and ensure they have access to any prescribed inhalers or medications.
🔸The general public may resume normal outdoor activities; however, those who experience respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath should move indoors and seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
🔸Windows and doors may be kept closed where feasible to reduce indoor particulate infiltration, and air conditioning systems should be set to recirculate indoor air.
🔸Parents and guardians of children with respiratory conditions are encouraged to monitor their children for symptoms and consult their healthcare provider if concerned.
Persons needing additional guidance or information can contact the Public Health Department on 244-2889 or 244-2621.
🖱For the full press release, logon to gov.ky
