Developing an Australian dust early warning system

Abstract

In Australia, the perception of large continental-scale dust storms has traditionally been restricted to aspects of ‘inconvenience’ or ‘novelty’. However, as the climate changes, there is an increased likelihood of dust storm activity that puts communities at increased risk. The aim of this study was to explore the need and possibility of developing a dust early warning system for Australia. Through a scoping review of internationally used sand and dust early warning systems, we found that an array of systems exist or were theoretically tested in the Northern Hemisphere. The sensor networks, one of which was operational, were of particular interest because Australia already has an operational air quality network that could be expanded to a dust early warning system. The need for a trans-boundary system is critical for Australia and, therefore, requires a combined approach of expanded sensor network with satellite-based systems to increase validation of any future modelling approach. This improved understanding could inform the development of a dust warning system for multi-socio-economic factors that account for cumulative exposure to small, localised and large continental-sized dust events.