Compiled with the help of artificial intelligence, based on Spanish-language information. Source below the article.
Calima pre-alert declared across the archipelago
The Government of the Canary Islands has declared a pre-alert for calima across the entire archipelago from 12.30pm this Monday, 26 October. The measure, adopted by the Directorate General of Emergencies, responds to forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and current air quality readings on several islands.
According to information released by the regional government, the arrival of suspended dust will initially affect mainly the mid-altitudes and peaks facing south on the mountainous islands, where particle concentrations could reach and exceed 100 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³) during the course of this Monday.
Declared under the PEFMA emergency plan
The declaration is made in application of the Canary Islands Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Weather Risks (PEFMA), which provides for monitoring measures during weather episodes that may affect the population.
Worsening expected over the coming days
The forecast evolution points to a progressive worsening of the situation over the coming days. This Monday, the calima will remain mainly at altitude in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, with limited impact at surface level. However, from midday on Tuesday, 27 October, it cannot be ruled out that the suspended dust will begin to gain intensity at low levels across all the islands.
The episode would reach its maximum intensity during Wednesday, 28 October, when concentrations of more than 100 µg/m³ of suspended particles could be widely exceeded.
Air quality already deteriorating
Meanwhile, the authorities have already recorded a significant deterioration in air quality at numerous monitoring stations in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, as well as at some points in La Palma. The presence of suspended Saharan dust can worsen air quality and cause discomfort, especially among the most vulnerable people.
Health advice for vulnerable groups
The Government of the Canary Islands warns that this episode may cause or aggravate health problems in people with chronic and respiratory illnesses. In these conditions, people are advised to pay particular attention to the evolution of official warnings and to avoid intense physical exertion outdoors if air quality is poor, especially in the case of people with asthma, lung diseases or other chronic conditions. It is also advisable to reduce exposure to suspended dust when high concentrations are recorded and to follow the guidance of the health authorities.
Monitoring to continue
The Directorate General of Emergencies will continue to monitor the evolution of the calima and air quality readings across the different islands to determine whether the declared situation needs to be updated.
The pre-alert affects the entire autonomous community of the Canary Islands and will be subject to the evolution of the episode over the coming days. The forecast of greater intensity on Wednesday makes it necessary to keep following official information, especially in areas where a significant worsening of air quality is already being detected.
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