Canary Islands tourists warned of impending Saharan dust storms

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

The Canary Islands, a favored destination for UK holidaymakers, are currently facing the threat of Calima, a meteorological phenomenon that originates from the Sahara desert. Characterized by high winds carrying sand and dust across vast distances, Calima can drastically alter weather conditions in the islands located near Africa. The sudden influx of sand into the atmosphere not only changes the landscape’s appearance but also poses potential health risks, especially to individuals with respiratory issues, the elderly, and children. With the islands lying directly in the path of these dust storms, tourists and residents are urged to stay vigilant and prepare for possible disruptions to their travel plans.

Meteorological experts, including those from the Spanish weather agency AEMET and British Weather Services, attribute the increasing frequency of these events to climate change and rising ocean temperatures. Predictions for the upcoming summer months indicate multiple occurrences of Calima, advising travelers to heed local warnings and adopt necessary precautions, such as staying indoors, drinking plenty of water, and using masks when outdoors. Past instances have seen significant impacts on visibility, leading to hazardous driving conditions and even temporary closures of airports, like the incident in January 2002 at Santa Cruz International Airport.

Beyond the immediate challenges posed by Calima, the Canary Islands are grappling with broader tourism-related issues. An increasing number of visitors has sparked local discontent, with protests anticipated over the perceived negative impact on the islands’ natural beauty and infrastructure. The surge in tourism has strained resources, congested roads, and overwhelmed residential areas, leading to calls for a more sustainable approach to managing the influx of tourists. As the Canary Islands confront these environmental and social challenges, both visitors and residents are encouraged to consider the long-term implications of travel and tourism on this picturesque Spanish archipelago.

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