canary islands

The weather forecast: Canary Islands bracing for calima and strong winds

The Canary Islands face dust, strong winds, and high temperatures this week.

The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued a week-long forecast that highlights two starkly contrasting weather patterns: the Canary Islands preparing for hot, dry conditions with strong winds, while the Iberian Peninsula faces plunging temperatures and frost as the “Beast from the East” cold front approaches.


Significant Changes Expected in the Canary Islands by Thursday

Starting Thursday, the Canary Islands will experience a marked shift in weather conditions, diverging sharply from those on the mainland. AEMET predicts the arrival of a calima, a dusty wind system originating from the Sahara Desert, which will primarily affect the eastern islands as well as interior regions of Tenerife and Gran Canaria. This atmospheric dust will significantly reduce visibility, especially at higher elevations, and could push temperatures up considerably. In the midlands and mountainous areas, peak temperatures may soar to around 28 degrees Celsius—much warmer than average for this time of year.

Strong Southeasterly Winds and Impact on Sea Conditions

The weather forecast: Canary Islands bracing for calima and strong winds

The usual trade winds that the Canary Islands experience in February will give way to a more forceful southeasterly flow. Gusts could reach speeds of 70 kilometres per hour or more, especially in mountainous regions and exposed coastal areas. These powerful winds will also impact sea conditions, with larger waves expected along east- and southeast-facing coastlines. This combination of strong winds and shifting air masses will lead to a noticeable difference in how the islands feel and look over the coming days.

Potential Rainfall and Weekend Outlook

The weather forecast: Canary Islands bracing for calima and strong winds

Although widespread rainfall is not anticipated, some light drizzle could occur on the northern slopes of the more mountainous islands, particularly in Tenerife and La Palma. This would likely be due to increased humidity and the accumulation of moist air on the windward side of these higher terrains.

By the weekend, the calima may persist, continuing to affect visibility and air quality. Coupled with the elevated temperatures and strong winds, these conditions might create discomfort for residents and visitors alike, especially for those with respiratory issues. AEMET advises monitoring updates and taking precautionary measures to minimise exposure to airborne dust and to exercise caution in outdoor and maritime activities due to the strong winds.

Broader Context: The “Beast from the East”

The weather forecast: Canary Islands bracing for calima and strong winds

While the Canary Islands grapple with hot, dry conditions, mainland Spain is preparing for a very different weather event. By Friday, the Iberian Peninsula is expected to experience a dramatic drop in temperatures as a mass of cold air sweeps in from inland Europe. This cold air corridor, often referred to as the “Beast from the East,” will intensify frosts, especially in the northern half of the country. This phenomenon occurs when frigid air masses from Eastern Europe—primarily Siberia and Russia—move westward, creating a flow of freezing, dry air that can lead to sharp temperature drops and, under the right conditions, significant snowfall.

The upcoming week will see a sharp divergence in weather patterns between the Canary Islands and mainland Spain. For the islands, the focus will be on managing the calima, stronger winds, and rising temperatures, which together pose challenges for visibility, air quality, and maritime safety. Meanwhile, the Iberian Peninsula braces for a much colder scenario, as the Beast from the East brings icy air and frost. AEMET recommends staying informed and prepared, regardless of where you are in the region.


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