On July 3, beachgoers at Playa de la Fossa in Calpe, Alicante, got quite a surprise. Out of nowhere, a sudden dust whirlwind swept across the beach, lifting sand into the air and even blowing away some umbrellas. Several people captured the moment on video, showing the swirling sand and umbrellas caught in the wind.

Estás tomando el Sol tranquilamente y de repente… Esta mañana (03/07/2025), #tolvanera en la Playa de la Fossa, en #Calpe (#Alicante). Fíjense, ha provocado el levantamiento y vuelo de algunas sombrillas. Una escena muy llamativa. Vídeo: @deniaFM. pic.twitter.com/OXLuO8Ue6M

— MeteOrihuela (@MeteOrihuela) July 3, 2025

How Do Dust Whirlwinds Form?

Dust whirlwinds, also known as dust devils, happen when the sun heats the ground on hot, dry days, which is exactly what we’ve been seeing in the region lately with these high temperatures. When the ground gets really hot, the air above it warms up and rises quickly. At the same time, cooler air moves in nearby, causing the air to start spinning.

If the ground is dry and loose, like sandy beaches or dusty parks, the spinning wind picks up the sand and dust, creating a visible whirlwind. These whirlwinds are usually small and short-lived but can be quite striking to see.

Whirlwinds Can Form Over Water Too

Interestingly, a similar whirlwind was recently spotted over the water in Madrid’s Parque Retiro. Even though it formed on the lake rather than on land, the same basic conditions, hot sun and calm air, helped create a spinning column of air that lifted water spray into the air overturning rowing boats in it’s path.

Most dust whirlwinds are harmless, but they can be surprising and may cause light objects like umbrellas or hats to fly away. If you see one forming, it’s best to keep your distance.

Main image: X/ @MeteOrihuela