Calima pre-alert declared across the Canary Islands as air quality worsens

A pre-alert for calima has been activated across the Canary Islands after a deterioration in air quality was recorded at monitoring stations in Tenerife, Gran Canaria and parts of La Palma.

The regional government’s Directorate General for Emergencies activated the measure at 12.30pm today, Monday 26th October. It covers the whole archipelago and will be reviewed as conditions develop.

Calima is dust suspended in the air, usually carried from the Sahara. The highest concentrations were expected today over southern-facing mid-altitude and mountain areas of Tenerife, Gran Canaria and La Palma. In Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, the dust was forecast to remain mainly at higher levels, with limited impact at the surface.

The government says the dust could begin affecting lower areas across all the islands from around midday tomorrow (Tuesday). Wednesday is expected to bring the most intense conditions, when concentrations could exceed 100 micrograms of suspended particles per cubic metre in many areas.

Calima can reduce visibility and worsen air quality. The government warns that it may cause or aggravate health problems, particularly for people with respiratory or chronic conditions.

Residents and visitors should follow local air-quality updates. Government advice includes keeping doors and windows closed, avoiding strenuous outdoor exercise and making sure regular medication is available.

Anyone feeling unwell should contact a medical professional. Drivers should use their lights, reduce speed and take extra care if visibility is poor.