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 Desert in Africa and is also called the Saharan Air Layer. So basically it’s a big dust and sand 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.
High concentrations of suspended dust can cause mild symptoms, such as nose and throat irritation, itchy eyes or coughing, but can also trigger or aggravate asthma attacks and worsen the clinical condition of people with chronic respiratory diseases, such as COPD or emphysema, or heart conditions.
Among the groups most vulnerable to the calima are children, the elderly, patients with chronic respiratory or heart diseases, pregnant women, and people who work outside.
Depending on the density of the calima, it could affect everyone. Please read the official advice at the end of this post.
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.
Staying Safe in a Calima
The following advice comes from the Security and Emergencies department of the Canary Islands (Gobierno de Canarias)
- Try to keep doors and windows closed, and avoid going outside if you suffer from chronic respiratory illnesses.
- Make sure you have your usual medication.
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid dry environments.
- Do not engage in strenuous physical exercise while this situation lasts.
- If you feel unwell, see your doctor.
- In this situation, visibility is significantly reduced. If you are driving on the road, take extra precautions, turn on your lights, and reduce your speed.
- For any information request, please call 012.
