A method is described to significantly enhance the signature of dust events using observations
from the Spinning Enhanced Visible and InfraRed Imager (SEVIRI). The approach involves the derivation of a
composite clear-sky signal for selected channels on an individual time step and pixel basis. These composite
signals are subtracted from each observation in the relevant channels to enhance weak transient signals
associated with either (a) low levels of dust emission or (b) dust emissions with high salt or low quartz
content. Different channel combinations, of the differenced data from the steps above, are then rendered in
false color imagery for the purpose of improved identification of dust source locations and activity. We have
applied this clear-sky difference (CSD) algorithm over three (globally significant) source regions in southern
Africa: the Makgadikgadi Basin, Etosha Pan, and the Namibian and western South African coast. Case study
analyses indicate three notable advantages associated with the CSD approach over established image
rendering methods: (i) an improved ability to detect dust plumes, (ii) the observation of source activation
earlier in the diurnal cycle, and (iii) an improved ability to resolve and pinpoint dust plume source locations