A weather phenomenon known as 'blood rain' may affect parts of western Sweden, including Gothenburg, later this week, according to multiple Swedish news sources. The event is expected as warm air moves into Europe, carrying sand particles from the Sahara desert. Meteorologists from the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) describe it as dramatic-sounding but harmless.
Maria Svedestig, a meteorologist at SMHI, reportedly said that the rain can leave reddish spots on the ground and cars due to the rust-colored sand, and it may create a red glow in the sky at sunrise or sunset. Therese Fougman, another SMHI meteorologist, compared the experience to getting a mouthful of sand at the beach. The rain is forecast to potentially reach the west coast and inland areas on Thursday afternoon or evening, but it is not certain if the 'blood rain' will be noticeable, as the sand particles might dissipate over Denmark or earlier.
the rain can leave reddish spots on the ground and cars due to the rust-colored sand, and it may create a red glow in the sky at sunrise or sunset.
Sources indicate that such events occur about once a year on average, with variations in frequency. The phenomenon is caused by southerly or southeasterly winds over Africa carrying the particles into Europe, where they combine with precipitation areas. Reports note that 'blood rain' is not dangerous and often involves fine particles that may not be visible to the naked eye.
compared the experience to getting a mouthful of sand at the beach.