Athens dust storm: People with respiratory problems told to stay indoors as orange Sahara cloud descends over the Greek capital

Similar dust clouds have occurred earlier this year, but this is believed to be one of the worst episodes in recent years

An orange Sahara dust haze has descended over the Greek capital, Athens.

Pictures show an orange hue over the entire city, in one of the worst episodes to hit Greece since 2018.

People with respiratory problems have been advised to stay inside and wear masks if they need to go outdoors.

The dust is expected to clear and visibility improve later on Wednesday.

5. Locals gather to watch dust storm

Friends gather to watch the dust storm on a hill on the edge of Athens. Photo: ANGELOS TZORTZINIS

Residents turned out to snap pictures of the dust storm, which turned the city orange. Photo: ANGELOS TZORTZINIS

The view from Tourkovounia hill, overlooking the city of Athens, was limited due to the dust storm. Photo: ANGELOS TZORTZINIS