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

undefined undefined 25 février 2026 undefined 09h00

The Editor

Jordan Haller

Just 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 Strasbourg.

After weeks of rain and cold, spring seems to be peeking its nose out in the capital, with nearly 18°C expected in the streets of Strasbourg this Friday, February 27. This warm wave isn’t just popping up out of nowhere; it’s specifically coming from the Sahara, and it brings along a natural phenomenon that isn’t without its consequences: the arrival of sand particles in the skies over the Alsatian capital.


Hooray for the southern winds

Since yesterday, a cloud straight from the world's largest sandy desert has been on its way to France. And here’s the good news: it’s bringing along unseasonably warm temperatures which we certainly don't mind. However, despite the spring-like thermometer and the expected sunshine, the sky might remain quite overcast for one simple reason, the ... presence of sand particles.

If all of France is going to take on a slight orange hue, it’s not the first time that such a phenomenon has affected the city. Unfortunately, it comes with a slight degradation of air quality, and we recommend not to leave your windows open too long unless you want a few deposits to settle in your living room.


A potential health risk ?

While this phenomenon isn't new, having occurred several times over the last few years, it still raises some concerns. Indeed, these sand particles contain cesium 137, a radioactive and obviously harmful element. But according to L'IRSN (Institute for Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety), the quantities are said to be…ne represent a real danger for health. However, it is still recommended to avoid doing intense outdoor sports and to wear a mask if you have respiratory issues.