The question currently being asked across balconies and terraces from El Hierro to Lanzarote is simple: when will the haze or calima finally clear? After a start to the week dominated by dense Saharan dust, which has significantly reduced air quality, a turning point is now emerging. At the same time, temperatures have climbed to around 27°C in mid-March, adding to the unusual conditions across the archipelago.
A change in weather pattern is underway
The Canary Islands are currently entering a transition phase. The warm, dry air mass originating from the Sahara—particularly affecting southern and eastern coastal areas—is gradually being replaced by westerly and northerly airflows. These act as a natural “cleansing mechanism” for the atmosphere, helping to push dust particles away towards the Atlantic.
The key moment for the end of the haze
According to the latest forecast models, the calima will not disappear suddenly but will fade progressively. The first signs of improvement are expected late on Tuesday, as wind patterns begin to shift and stronger gusts develop.
A more noticeable change is forecast for Wednesday, especially in the western province, where visibility is expected to improve significantly as dust concentrations decrease.
However, AEMET notes that haze may still linger on Tuesday in mid-altitude areas and mountainous regions. It is only once wind directions change in the middle layers of the atmosphere that the dust mass will be effectively pushed out towards the ocean. Experts also point out that peak temperatures have already been reached—often a sign that the calima episode is nearing its end.
Why the air is clearing
The key factor behind the clearing of the haze lies in the shift in wind direction. During the early part of the day, easterly flows continue to trap dust, particularly along the northern slopes of the islands.
As atmospheric instability increases, winds begin to rotate, allowing cleaner Atlantic air to enter the archipelago from both the north and south. This influx of fresh air gradually displaces the dust-laden air, leading to clearer skies and improved visibility.
Differences between the islands
On the eastern islands, such as Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, which lie closer to the African continent, the clearing process is expected to take slightly longer. In these areas, haze at higher altitudes may persist into Wednesday afternoon before skies return to their usual clarity.
What happens after the calima
Although the dust will clear, the weather will not revert to cold conditions. Temperatures will remain mild and pleasant, albeit without the unusually high peaks recorded earlier in the week.
Winds, which have been producing very strong gusts in exposed areas—particularly in the south-east and north-west—will gradually weaken as conditions stabilise.
For residents, this means a return to normal daily activities: outdoor exercise can resume without restriction, and homes can be ventilated without the risk of fine dust settling indoors.
