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Why the sky in Montpellier might change color in the coming days

undefined undefined 25 février 2026 undefined 09h00

The Editor

Cyrille Redor / Shutterstock.com

Like swallows in spring, they return every year. In the coming days, particles of sand from the Sahara will cover all of France, and the region won't be spared. As a result, the sky will turn orange, a phenomenon far from being new in Montpellier.

After weeks of rain and cold, spring seems to be poking its head out in the capital, with nearly 18°C expected in the streets of Montpellier this Wednesday, February 25. This warm spell is not coming out of nowhere; it’s specifically from the Sahara, and it brings along a natural phenomenon that has its consequences: the arrival of sandy particles in the sky of Surdouée.


Hooray for the southern winds!

Since yesterday, a cloud straight from the largest sand desert in the world is on its way to France. And here’s the good news: it’s bringing with it some unusually warm temperatures for this time of year, which we certainly don’t mind! However, despite the spring-like temperatures and the expected sunshine, the sky could still stay quite cloudy, for one simple reason, the sand.

presence of sand particles.

If all of France is going to take on a slight orange hue, this isn't the first time such a phenomenon has affected the city. Unfortunately, it comes along with a slight degradation of air quality, and we recommend not keeping your windows open for too long in case a few deposits find their way into your living room.


A potential health risk?

While this phenomenon isn't new, having happened several times over the past few years, it does raise some concerns. Indeed, these sand particles contain cesium 137, a radioactive and obviously harmful element. However, according to L'IRSN (Institut de radioprotection et de sûreté nucléaire), the amounts are said to be minimal.acute;negligible and do not represent a real danger to health. However, it is still recommended not to engage in too intense exercise outdoors and to wear a mask if you have respiratory issues.