Dust emission and transport in Mali, West Africa

Abstract

ABSTRACTVertical dust fluxes were measured in the Inland Delta region of the Niger River, Mali, West Africa, during April‐June, 1989 and 1990. Measurements of dust flux represent, for the most part, non‐dust storm conditions or ‘dust haze’ periods. The observed concentration versus height relationships are similar to data presented by other investigators. The relationship between wind shear velocity (u*, m s−1) and vertical dust flux (F, μg m−2 s−1) can be described by a relationship in which F is proportional to u*4. However, there is considerable scatter within the data set which is attributable to textural controls and surface conditions. The vertical dust fluxes measured in Mali are compared to dust fluxes measured in Texas, USA, and Yukon Territories, Canada. The significantly different values for the constant of proportionality (a) in the F α a u*4 relationship for these geographically diverse areas is a function of surficial controls on the release of sediments to the air stream. Dust concentrations measured in Mali were found to be uniformly high and in general exceed WHO health standards for acceptable total suspended particulate loadings. As a result background dust may be considered a long term stress on health for the people of this region of Mali.