Here on the Costa Blanca South, we have a mostly stable Mediterranean climate, with sunny days almost all year round. But occasionally we experience a special weather phenomenon that surprises both tourists and residents – calima. When the calima hits, the sky transforms, the air is filled with red/brown sand dust and the temperature rises noticeably.
What is calima?
Calima is a weather phenomenon that occurs when dust and sand from the Sahara Desert blow into Spain. The air masses are transported by warm winds and can settle like a veil up the coast.
When the phenomenon is strong, the sky takes on a hazy, yellowish or orange hue, visibility is reduced and both cars, houses and terraces are covered in a thin layer of sand. The sand is red/brown and leaves lasting marks on tiles and outdoor areas, if it is not washed away regularly. For homeowners in La Zenia, Torrevieja, Guardamar, Ciudad Quesada and elsewhere up the coast, this is causing headaches – especially for those with holiday homes that are empty for long periods.
Where does calima come from?
Calima occurs when south-easterly winds (often called sirocco or leveche) drag sand particles into the atmosphere over the Sahara. These particles can be carried hundreds, even thousands of kilometres north, before reaching the Mediterranean coast in Spain.
This is why we here can wake up to a day where the air feels heavy and both the view and the blue sky have “disappeared” behind a blanket of sand.
Consequences of calima on the Costa Blanca south
Although calima is not dangerous for most people, it can lead to several practical and health challenges:
Health: People with asthma, allergies or respiratory problems may experience more coughing, throat irritation and discomfort.
Visibility: Strong calima reduces visibility and can affect both car traffic and flights to and from Alicante Airport, but it is usually the Canary Islands that are most affected.
Temperature: Calima brings with it warm air, and therefore the temperature often rises sharply – both during the day and at night.
Cleaning: Dust settles everywhere, and both cars, outdoor areas and outdoor furniture must be washed after a calima period.
The experience of calima
Although many people find calima to be annoying, it can also be a fascinating sight. The landscape takes on a golden glow, sunsets become dramatic, and you are reminded of the geographical proximity between Spain and Africa.
Tips during calima
To protect yourself and your home when the calima hits the Costa Blanca south, you can follow these tips:
Keep windows and doors closed to avoid dust indoors.
Use air conditioning or an air purifier if the air feels heavy.
Avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors if you have breathing difficulties.
Wait with car washing and outdoor cleaning until the calima has passed, but don’t wait too long afterwards as it can leave lasting marks.
Do you want help cleaning outdoor areas?
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