Calima is a weather event in which hot, dry air carrying fine dust from the Sahara reaches the Canary Islands. The sky turns hazy and yellowish, visibility drops and temperatures can rise sharply. Most episodes last one to three days. People with asthma or heart and lung conditions should limit outdoor activity until it passes.
What calima looks like
- A beige or orange haze that hides the mountains.
- Fine dust on cars, terraces and furniture.
- Unusually warm, dry air, sometimes with strong easterly wind.
- Poor air quality readings.
When it happens
Calima can happen at any time of year, and winter episodes are common. It arrives when winds blow from the east or south-east, from Africa, instead of the usual north-east trade winds.
Health advice
- Check warnings from AEMET, Spain’s weather service, and local air quality alerts.
- Avoid strenuous exercise outdoors during intense episodes.
- Keep windows closed and use air conditioning on recirculation if you have it.
- Drink plenty of water.
- If you have a respiratory condition, keep your medication with you and follow your doctor’s advice.
Practical tips
- Expect flight delays or diversions in severe episodes, because visibility at airports can fall.
- Wash fruit and vegetables bought from outdoor stalls.
- Cover outdoor furniture and close parasols in strong wind.
- Wildfire risk rises with hot, dry calima wind; respect any restrictions.
After calima
Once the trade winds return, the air clears quickly. Expect a day of cleaning dust from your balcony.
Our verdict
Calima is part of life in the Canaries. Check the forecast, take it easy for a day or two and it will pass. More in our weather guides.
Official sources
Rules change. Before you book or apply, check the current position with the official source: