The Canary Islands are experiencing a "supercalima," or severe Saharan dust storm, as the region continues to feel the lingering effects of the recent storm Dorothea. The Government has officially declared air quality across the archipelago as "extremely unfavourable" with particle concentrations reaching six times the recommended maximum levels.
According to the Global Air Quality Index Project website, the Canary Islands currently have the worst air quality in all of Spain, where pollution measurements classify it as “dangerous”.
The result is a dramatic reduction in air quality and visibility, with levels dropping to as little as 1,000 metres in parts of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
For most of the archipelago, visibility has been reduced to around 3,000 metres, in line with warnings issued by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), which had raised a yellow alert for the adverse conditions.
According to data from the Emergency Consortium of Lanzarote, the air quality on the island has been classified as "extremely unfavourable" due to the high concentrations of fine particulate matter, specifically PM2.5 and PM10 particles.
These microscopic particles, with diameters smaller than 2.5 microns and between 2.5 and 10 microns, respectively, pose serious risks to respiratory health, particularly during prolonged exposure.
Comparisons to Past Supercalima Events
This current calima is reminiscent of the record-breaking supercalima experienced in February 2020, just before the first COVID-19 lockdown. A study conducted by the Institute of Natural Products and Agrobiology (IPNA) of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) documented unprecedented levels of suspended dust during that event, which forced the closure of all Canary Islands airports for two days. Thousands of passengers were stranded as airlines worked to rebook flights once conditions improved.
While the current dust storm has not led to such widespread disruption, the recorded dust concentrations are comparable to those seen during the 2020 event. This highlights the severity of the current situation and reinforces the need for precautionary measures.
Health and Safety Concerns
In light of these conditions, the Canary Islands' health authorities have urged residents to follow safety guidelines, particularly those most vulnerable, including children, the elderly, and people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Key recommendations include avoiding outdoor physical activities, staying hydrated, and following medical advice for managing pre-existing conditions.
