Eerie morning as dust storm hits the coast
Ballina Shire residents woke to a fine morning today, but the clear skies didn’t last long as coastal areas experienced a once-in-a-lifetime event as a massive dust storm enveloped the area.
Long-time Ballina locals were saying that they had never experienced such a weather event.
The dust clouded over Ballina about 10am, and Ballina Info took these photos at the Lighthouse headland at East Ballina, and in the main street looking east and west.
For more information on dust storm health precautions, visit the Health Department website, which advises:
•Avoid outdoor activity. If you must go outside, spend as little time outside as possible.
•Cover your nose and mouth with a mask or damp cloth to reduce exposure to dust particles. A P2 or P3 mask, available from hardware stores, should block even the finest particles if fitted correctly over the nose and mouth.
•Avoid vigorous exercise, especially if you have asthma, diabetes or a breathing-related condition.
•Stay indoors, with windows and doors closed.
•Stay in air-conditioned premises, if possible.
