On Friday, Tenerife and La Gomera were hit by a severe Calima. The forecast is supported by the Copernicus CAMS model and measurements from the European Environment Agency.
The daily average level of particulate matter (PM10) in Tenerife is 58 micrograms per cubic metre, which means that air quality is poor. Air quality is also poor on La Gomera, where particulate matter levels reach 52 micrograms per cubic metre.
The article What a Calima means for the Canary Islands explains what lies behind this weather phenomenon. Researchers at the University of La Laguna have found that the risk of a heart attack increases by up to two per cent during such weather conditions.
Calima: Saharan dust irritates the eyes and respiratory tract
Fine Saharan dust carried by the Calima can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract. Older people, pregnant women and those with asthma or other respiratory or heart conditions should avoid physical exertion outdoors. Keeping windows and doors closed and drinking plenty of fluids can help.
How strong is the Calima today? Calima forecast and readings for the Canary Islands
For exactly how the weather is developing, see our always up-to-date weather forecast for the Canary Islands. Below you can go straight to…
«Calima in the Canary Islands: what at-risk groups need to know»
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