Everything you wanted to know about a Calima!
What is a “calima”?
Very often in the Canary Islands, we can experience suspended dust in the air, which blows over from the Sahara Dessert in Africa and is also called the “Saharan Air Layer”. So basically it’s a big dust cloud.
What does a calima do?
A calima makes the sky very hazy, the air can turn very hot and the sun often looks very peculiar. The suspended dust lingers in the atmosphere coating everything with a fine reddish orange colour, which you will normally notice most on cars and patio furniture.
How long does a Calima last?
A calima can last from a day to a few days all depending on the direction the wind is blowing and the atmosphere.
Is a Calima bad for my health?
The Canarian Government advise common sense when a calima is present. Those with respiratory problems, such as asthma and other lung problems, should take extra care. Taking shade and not staying out all day in the heat, plus plenty of water and some aircon will see you through it.
What time of year does a Calima come?
A calima can blow over any time of the year, all depending on the wind and current climate. Of course they will feel much hotter in the Summer months as opposed to January.
What does a calima feel like?
Basically a calima feels like someone turned the heat up suddenly. The air is hotter and sometimes it feels like hairdryers are blowing at you, you may taste that the air is dusty.
This shouldn’t put you off booking a holiday to Puerto Rico, us islanders have put up with calimas for many years, jump into the Atlantic Ocean to cool down and take some shade with a cold drink, it will be over before you know it.
