calima news is a weather phenomenon that frequently grabs headlines across the Canary Islands and parts of southern Spain. Essentially, it refers to airborne sand and dust, often from the Sahara Desert, carried by hot, dry winds. The phenomenon causes skies to haze over, visibility to drop, and air quality to deteriorate. Because of its suddenness and intensity, calima news often prompts warnings from weather agencies and health authorities.
In recent years, calima news has become more newsworthy for two reasons: its increasing intensity and its far-reaching effects on daily life. As climate and weather patterns shift, the episodes of Saharan dust appear to be evolving in character — sometimes more severe, with increased health risks, and more frequent disruptions, especially for vulnerable populations. This article explores the latest calima news, its causes, impacts, safety tips, and what the future might hold.
What Is calima news? Understanding the Phenomenon
calima news is the Spanish term used to describe haze, dust, or sand particles suspended in the air, typically transported from the Sahara Desert towards the Canary Islands and occasionally further afield. Scientifically, it occurs when high-pressure systems form over North Africa, combined with strong easterly or southeasterly winds that lift fine particles of sand and dust into the atmosphere. These wind-borne particles can travel large distances over the Atlantic, affecting air quality, visibility, and climate in the islands. CanaryDoctor.com+3Canary Islands+3Wikipedia+3
calima news events can vary in intensity. At their mildest, they produce a light haze and slightly hazy skies. In more severe episodes, the dust cloud becomes dense, visibility may drop dramatically, and airborne particles of different sizes (particularly PM10 and sometimes PM2.5) become elevated. The timing of calima news events is often seasonal: they tend to be more common in the winter and early spring months. CanaryDoctor.com+3Al Jazeera+3Canary Islands+3
While “calima news” has local significance to the Canary Islands, similar dust events occur globally (e.g. Saharan dust transported across the Atlantic). What makes Calima notable are the local environmental, health, and logistical impacts. Because many residents and tourists live in close connection with outdoor activities, beaches, and travel, when calima news strikes it tends to affect more than just views — it affects lives.
Latest Calima News and Weather Updates
Recent reports confirm that the Canary Islands and nearby regions continue to face frequent calima news episodes. These events are being closely tracked by meteorological agencies such as AEMET and local emergency services. For example, pre-alerts have been issued for dense Calima expected to reduce visibility, particularly over southern slopes of the islands, and health authorities have issued warnings for those with respiratory issues. Canarian Weekly+2Canarian Weekly+2
A recent development is the observed change in the pattern of calima news events. Studies suggest that although the number of overall episodes may not have increased dramatically, their severity, duration, and the impact on air quality have worsened. One study noted that over decades, while visibility-based Calima events may occur similarly often, the more intense ones producing hazardous air quality are becoming more common. Canarian Weekly+1
Additionally, weather forecasts often predict when calima news might arise, giving residents and visitors a heads up. During some episodes, alerts are raised for flights, outdoor plans, and vulnerable individuals. For example, airports have had to cancel or delay flights due to low visibility. Citizens are advised to stay updated with weather apps or local news when forecasts indicate Saharan dust transport. Earth Observatory+2Canarian Weekly+2
Impacts of Calima on Daily Life
Health Effects
The inhalation of fine-dust particles, especially PM10 (particles up to 10 micrometers in diameter), can irritate eyes, throat, nose, and lungs. For those with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory conditions, Calima can exacerbate symptoms — causing coughing, wheezing, chest discomfort, or increased use of inhalers. Even healthy individuals may feel discomfort during severe episodes: throat dryness, nasal irritation, and fatigue are common. Wikipedia+3Canary Islands+3Diario AS+3
Cardiovascular risks also rise during intense Calima. Some studies from Tenerife and other Canary Islands have shown increased mortality from heart attacks in older populations during significant Calima events. The dust particles can induce inflammation, which may stress the heart. Vulnerable groups — children, the elderly, those with pre-existing heart or lung disease — are especially at risk. ipna.csic.es+1
Travel, Visibility, and Environmental Disruptions
Calima doesn’t just cause health problems — it affects transportation and visibility. Airports may cancel or postpone flights when dust and haze reduce visibility to unsafe levels. In past events, visibility has dropped to very low levels (some reports mention less than a few hundred meters), forcing restrictions on flights and sometimes closing access roads. Al Jazeera+1
Tourism and outdoor activities also suffer. Beaches, hiking trails, viewpoints, and local excursions may be disrupted or less pleasant. The atmospheric haze dims vistas, changes sky colour (orange or yellow tint), and sometimes creates “dirty rain” (where dust in the air mixes with moisture, leaving dust deposits). Environmental impacts include dust settling on solar panels, reducing their efficiency, and on surfaces like cars and buildings, which need cleaning after events. Agricultural areas may also suffer dust deposition on crops. Canary Islands+2LOOKHOME MS+2
How to Stay Safe During Calima Events
When authorities issue warnings for Calima, taking precautions can protect your health and comfort. First, limit outdoor exposure, especially strenuous activity during peak hours of dust. Stay indoors with windows closed when possible. Wearing appropriately rated masks (e.g. FFP2 / N95) can help filter out fine particulate matter when you must be outside. IQAir+1
Filters in homes are important: use air purifiers or ensure that air conditioning systems have clean filters. This helps reduce indoor concentrations of dust. Use damp cloths to wipe down surfaces to trap dust rather than letting it circulate. Foods and air humidity can also go low during Calima, so staying hydrated and using humidifiers (if available) can soothe irritated respiratory tracts.
For sensitive populations — people with asthma, infants, elderly — extra care is needed. Avoid places where dust is thick, and follow existing medical advice (keep inhalers or medications handy). If symptoms worsen (shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain), seek medical attention. Also, pay attention to official alerts (weather services, health departments), as they will often give guidance tailored to the severity of the upcoming Calima.
Long-Term Outlook and Climate Considerations
Recent research indicates that climate change may be contributing to changes in the frequency and intensity of Calima events. Shifts in atmospheric circulation patterns, increased dryness in source regions (Sahara), and stronger or more frequent high-pressure zones over North Africa can result in more intense dust transport. Some studies say that while number of events may remain similar, their intensity and impact are growing. Canarian Weekly+1
Air quality monitoring is increasingly important. Agencies such as the Canary Islands’ meteorological and public health services are expanding monitoring of PM2.5 / PM10, satellite tracking (e.g. Copernicus), and better forecasting models. As local infrastructure adapts (air filtration, building practices, warning systems), residents and visitors may be better prepared for Calima. Copernicus+2Canarian Weekly+2
Also, awareness and education—both among locals and tourists—are key. People increasingly recognize what Calima is, how to protect themselves, and how to plan around possible events. Over time, this helps reduce health effects and inconveniences when dust storms occur.
Conclusion
Calima is more than just a hazy sky—it’s a complex, recurring weather phenomenon with significant health, environmental, and societal consequences. The Canary Islands, being geographically close to Sahara and under influences of atmospheric transport, are particularly vulnerable. As recent trends show, Calima events are often more intense and impactful than in past decades.
Staying informed through reliable news and weather services, taking precautionary measures during episodes of Saharan dust, and supporting longer-term adaptation measures are all essential. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, understanding Calima helps you protect your health, plan your routines, and lessen the disruption when the dust clouds roll in.
FAQs About Calima News
What causes Calima in the Canary Islands?
Calima is caused by wind systems that lift fine dust and sand from the Sahara Desert and carry them westwards under certain atmospheric conditions. High pressure over North Africa, easterly or southeasterly winds, and dry air are key factors. Canary Islands+1
How often does a Calima event usually occur?
It varies by year, season, and weather patterns. Some years experience fewer episodes but with strong intensity; others have more frequent but milder events. Winter to early spring are peak times. Canarian Weekly+1
Is Calima dangerous for health?
Yes, especially for vulnerable groups. Elevated levels of particulate matter (PM10, and sometimes finer) can worsen respiratory and cardiovascular conditions. Even healthy individuals can experience irritation of eyes, throat, discomfort, and fatigue. ipna.csic.es+2IQAir+2
How does Calima affect flights and tourism?
Poor visibility can lead to flight delays or cancellations. Outdoor activities, sightseeing, and beaches may be impacted by dust haze. It also can reduce the aesthetic enjoyment of landscape views. Tourism depending on clear skies is often disrupted. Earth Observatory+1
Q5. When is Calima most common during the year?
Typically in winter and early spring, although it can happen at other times depending on wind patterns and atmospheric conditions. Canary Islands+1
Q6. What precautions should tourists take during Calima?
- Stay updated with local weather reports and air quality alerts.
- Use masks (e.g. FFP2/N95) when outdoors.
- Keep windows and doors closed, use air purifiers if available.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak dust and heat.
- Stay hydrated, protect skin and eyes.
Q7. Is climate change linked to more intense Calima episodes?
Yes, evidence suggests that shifting weather patterns, increased aridity, and changes in atmospheric circulation may be increasing the intensity and health impacts of Calima events, even if frequency remains similar. Canarian Weekly+1
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