Heat advisory and heavy Saharan dust affect the USVI Friday

The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for the U.S. Virgin Islands from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday. The conditions can affect people who are sensitive to heat, especially without effective cooling or adequate hydration.

High to locally very high Saharan dust concentrations will affect the region Friday and Saturday, producing hazy skies, lower visibility, reduced air quality and fewer showers. People with respiratory or other dust sensitivities should limit exposure when necessary and follow medical guidance.

A moderate risk of dangerous rip currents applies along U.S. Virgin Islands beaches Friday. Beachgoers should check local conditions before entering the water and avoid swimming where warning signs or unsafe surf are present.

NWS updated its San Juan forecast page at 8:08 a.m. Friday. Heat and dust are the leading territory-wide hazards today; the page did not identify a new tropical cyclone threat to the Virgin Islands.