According to MeteOrihuela, Spain is set to welcome another round of Saharan dust as August draws to a close. From the evening of Thursday, August 29, through the weekend, the Iberian Peninsula, particularly the southern and eastern regions, will experience a noticeable haze. This phenomenon, known as Calima, will bring a murky, yellow tinted sky and could significantly impact air quality.

¡Para no perder la costumbre! Nueva intrusión #PolvoSahariano para finalizar #agosto2024, desde últimas horas jueves 29 hasta que finalice la semana. Intervalos de mayor concentración de partículas en el sur y este #PenínsulaIbérica. No se descarta #LluviaDeBarro en #findesemana. pic.twitter.com/bwfts7BIq3

— MeteOrihuela (@MeteOrihuela) August 27, 2024

Understanding Calima: The Saharan Dust Invasion

Calima is a meteorological event where fine dust and sand particles from the Sahara Desert are carried by winds across large distances. This dust can cover the sky in a reddish-brown or yellowish tint, often making the sun look dim and the air feel heavier. In addition to visual changes, Calima can affect respiratory health and lead to a layer of grime settling on surfaces.

How to Prepare for a Calima

Before the Dust Hits:

• Stay Informed: Follow local weather updates for accurate forecasts on when the dust will arrive. This will help you plan your activities and prepare your home.
• Postpone Car Washes: If you’re thinking about washing your car, it’s best to wait. There’s a possibility of ‘barro’ rain—rain mixed with dust—which could quickly undo any cleaning you’ve done!

During the Calima:

• Minimize Outdoor Time: Try to stay indoors as much as possible. The dust can be irritating to the eyes, throat, and lungs, especially for those with respiratory issues.
• Seal Your Home: Keep windows and doors closed to keep the dust out. This will help maintain better indoor air quality.
• Use Air Purifiers: If you have air purifiers, turn them on to help filter out the dust particles. It’s a good idea to clean or replace filters regularly during this period.

After the Dust Settles:

• Clean Surfaces: Once the Calima subsides, you may need to clean outdoor areas and vehicles to remove the dust residue. This includes washing your car and wiping down outdoor furniture.
• Monitor Air Quality: Check local air quality reports to gauge when it’s safe to resume outdoor activities. Even after the dust clears, air quality might take a while to return to normal.

Enjoy the Unique Spectacle

While the Saharan dust can cause inconvenience, it also offers a unique natural spectacle. The dramatic sunsets and sunrises that often accompany calima with their yellow-tinted glow, can create a dystopian atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

As we close out August, Spain‘s skies are gearing up for a Saharan dust invasion, bringing a classic Calima event. It might make for some pretty unusual scenery, but with a bit of prep, you can handle it just fine. Keep an eye on the forecast, close your windows, and give your car a break from the wash until the dust settles. While Calima might add a bit of a haze to your weekend plans, it’s also a fascinating reminder of how global weather patterns work. So, stay informed, take it easy, and enjoy the rest of your weekend—even if it’s a little dusty!

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Image: Shutterstock/Eduardo Frederiksen