Calima in the Canary Islands brings Saharan dust over the islands: the sky turns yellowish, the air heats up and the view of the ocean disappears into haze. It is a common phenomenon – and with a few rules you can cope with it without any problems.
Put simply, calima is fine sand and dust from the Sahara that has travelled across the ocean. It forms when a strong east wind blows over the African continent and lifts sand particles high into the atmosphere.
Because the Canary Islands lie relatively close to the African coast, the dust cloud sometimes moves right over them. The result is reduced visibility, a sudden rise in temperature and very dry air.
To see whether there is calima on Gran Canaria right now and where the sun is shining today, check IslaBu.
Dust and sand from the Sahara
All year round
Usually 2–5 days
When the trade winds return
Calima occurs all year round; only its height in the atmosphere changes. In winter and spring the dust stays in the low layers and reaches the coast and the resorts directly, where it noticeably reduces visibility and worsens air quality. In summer the dust layer is concentrated at higher altitudes – by the ocean it shows mainly as haze and a sharp rise in temperature, while the highest dust concentrations and extreme temperatures hit the mountains.
It usually lasts a short time, 2 to 5 days. As soon as the wind changes back to the usual north-east trade winds, the air clears quickly and the sky is blue again.
You will find more tips for a winter holiday in the article Gran Canaria in winter.
In the south-west – Puerto de Mogán and Puerto Rico are protected by high cliffs, the wind is not as strong and the sea stays calmer.
Do not plan trips to Roque Nublo or Pico de las Nieves – at altitude there is the most dust and the gusts of hot wind are strongest.
For a healthy person calima is not dangerous, just unpleasant because of the heat and dust. A few rules are enough:
Drink plenty of water – the air is extremely dry and the body dehydrates quickly.
Close the windows – and switch on the air conditioning instead, otherwise you will have dust in your bed.
Take it easy – skip demanding hikes and running.
Protect your eyes and breathing – sunglasses; people with asthma or allergies should have their medication to hand and possibly a face mask.
Plan B – the museums in Las Palmas, Casa de Colón, the Poema del Mar aquarium, a spa or shopping.
If there is a weather warning, stay at your accommodation – driving is risky, with strong side gusts and flying palm leaves.
If you want less wind when calima arrives, choose the south-west of the island – Puerto de Mogán or Puerto Rico.
Saharan dust and sand brought over the Canary Islands by the east wind. It brings haze, heat and dry air.
Usually 2 to 5 days, until the trade winds return.
Not for a healthy person. People with asthma or allergies should keep their medication to hand.
To the south-west of the island, where there is less wind, or to the museums and the aquarium in Las Palmas. Better to skip the mountains.
Cancel your plans and stay at your accommodation – driving in strong wind is very risky.
Calima is a normal part of the Canary Islands’ climate – if you adapt your plans to the conditions and follow the authorities’ advice, you will get through it safely and without problems.