Wind Velocities Associated with Dust Deflation Events in the Western Sahara

Data from eight meteorological stations in the western Sahara for the period 1 July-15 August 1974 indicate that the mean wind velocity associated with dust-raising events is about 10.5 m s−1. The mean deflation velocity at individual stations ranged from 6.5 to 13.0 m s−1. At most stations the wind velocity associated with the onset of a dust-raising event (the threshold velocity) appears to be a reproducible characteristic of the environment. Threshold velocity variations appear to be attributable in part to differences in soil and terrain characteristics at the stations.