The weather in the Canary Islands is set to remain stable in the coming days, although visibility and air quality will continue to be affected by the presence of Saharan dust. According to the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), the calima will persist across the archipelago this Tuesday, bringing hazy skies and temperatures that remain unusually high for this time of year.
Despite slight drops in some areas, thermometers will once again record elevated values. Forecasts indicate that maximum temperatures will reach 26°C in key locations such as Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Sebastián de La Gomera. In the rest of the island capitals, daytime highs are expected to range between 23°C and 25°C.
This warm weather is being driven by south-easterly winds, which are responsible for transporting dust from the African continent towards the islands.
Uneven Impact of Haze Across the Archipelago
AEMET reports that the intensity of the haze will vary from island to island. In the eastern islands, particularly Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, skies are expected to remain mostly clear, although covered by a layer of suspended dust. South-easterly winds may become strong at times, especially on western slopes.
In contrast, Gran Canaria, Tenerife and the western islands will experience greater concentrations of haze in mid-altitude areas and on southern slopes. However, some improvement is forecast later in the day. Weather models suggest that conditions will gradually ease during the evening in La Palma, El Hierro and La Gomera, allowing for improved air clarity.
Forecast Temperatures in Main Cities
While daytime temperatures remain high, night-time values are expected to fall slightly in inland areas and on southern slopes. The forecast for the main cities is as follows:
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 17°C minimum / 26°C maximum
- San Sebastián de La Gomera: 18°C / 26°C
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 19°C / 24°C
- Santa Cruz de La Palma: 16°C / 25°C
- Arrecife: 16°C / 24°C
- Puerto del Rosario: 17°C / 23°C
- Valverde: 16°C / 24°C
The contrast between daytime warmth and cooler nights is expected to remain noticeable.
Maritime Conditions: Caution Advised
For those planning maritime activities, conditions along the Canary Islands coastline require particular attention. Winds at sea will initially be variable, at force 2 to 3, before shifting to southerly and south-easterly directions with force 3 to 4 during the afternoon, especially along southern coasts.
These conditions will lead to generally choppy seas, combined with a north-westerly swell producing waves between 1 and 2 metres in height. As on land, haze will also affect maritime visibility, reducing horizontal sightlines.
Health Recommendations
Health authorities continue to advise caution during episodes of Saharan dust. Residents and visitors are encouraged to avoid intense outdoor physical activity, particularly those with asthma, respiratory conditions or cardiovascular problems.
Given current forecasts, the calima is likely to persist well into the week, making it important to remain attentive to official updates and recommendations.
