Authorities on the Canary Islands have declared a state of emergency due to a dangerous convergence of extreme heat, gale-force winds, and the Saharan dust phenomenon known as Calima. According to reports from Canarias 7, the weather event is severely impacting local infrastructure, with temperatures on Gran Canaria, La Gomera, and Tenerife exceeding 35°C, while wind gusts in some areas have reached 25 meters per second.
Why are the Canary Islands under a state of emergency?
The declaration of a state of emergency is a direct response to the compounded risks posed by the current weather patterns. As reported by Canarias 7, the combination of intense heat and the Calima—a weather phenomenon that carries fine sand and dust particles from the Sahara Desert across the Atlantic—has created hazardous conditions for both residents and tourists.
The Spanish meteorological agency, Aemet, has warned that these conditions significantly impair visibility and complicate outdoor activities. According to Danews, the situation is severe enough to cause disruptions across air, sea, and road transport networks.
How is the Calima affecting the islands?
The primary health impact of the Calima is the degradation of air quality. The influx of Saharan dust makes the air difficult to breathe, prompting local emergency services to issue specific health guidelines. Officials are urging people to stay hydrated, avoid exposure to the sun during peak hours, and strictly adhere to safety warnings.
Beyond health concerns, the extreme dryness brought by these winds drastically increases the risk of forest fires. The combination of high temperatures—forecast to reach 37°C in parts of Gran Canaria—and gusting winds creates a volatile environment for fire ignition and rapid spread.
Regional impact breakdown
- Gran Canaria: Expected to reach peak temperatures of 37°C, with wind gusts hitting 25 m/s.
- La Gomera: Experiencing similar wind intensity and extreme heat.
- Tenerife: Reporting significant temperature spikes and visibility issues.
What should travelers and residents expect?
Travelers should anticipate potential delays. According to Danews, the reduced visibility and high winds have the potential to impact flight schedules and ferry operations between the islands. If you are currently in the region, check with your airline or transport provider for the latest status updates before heading to the airport or port.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is a Calima?
- It is a weather phenomenon where hot, dry air carries large amounts of sand and dust from the Sahara Desert across the Atlantic to the Canary Islands.
- Why are forest fire risks higher during this time?
- The extreme heat and dry air associated with the Calima remove moisture from vegetation, making it highly susceptible to ignition from the strong winds.
- Is it safe to be outside during a Calima?
- Local authorities advise avoiding the sun during peak heat and minimizing outdoor activity, as the dust-heavy air can be difficult to breathe and visibility may be poor.
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