Calima Causes Poor Air Quality on the Costa Del Sol

Calima Causes Poor Air Quality on the Costa Del Sol.  This week, the Costa Del Sol is affected by a sand-cloud phenomenon.

Calima Causes Poor Air Quality on the Costa Del Sol

This week, a calima has affected the weather on the Costa Del Sol.  Saharan sand clouds cause a hazy appearance, reducing visibility in certain areas. Clouds also have a yellow/orange tint.  Calima also causes a build-up of dust and sand on buildings, roads and cars.  There is currently no forecast for rain.

This week, humidity levels can reach 70%.  It is a combination of this and the sand that’s in the atmosphere which makes it feel muggy.  It is possible that asthmatics and those with hayfever will also experience more severe symptoms.

Click here to view the latest Costa Del Sol weather forecast.

What is A Calima

Sand is the cause of a phenomenon called “calima”. This is a wind that has come from the Sahara Desert.  The skies on the Costa Del Sol are often orange and bright red.  The calima may leave a sandy coating on footpaths, buildings, and cars.

Calima can produce a red haze. Olivia Longman.

Calima may also pose a risk to the health of people who have respiratory issues and allergies. Symptoms include nasal congestion, headaches and eye irritation.

Rain can dramatically increase the impact of calima.  This results in a deposit of mud, which can be difficult to drive and cause problems for outdoor amenities such as swimming pools.

Published: 29.07.2026

Written by Dave James

News on 93.6 Global Radio

93.6 Global Radio is the official English language radio station for the Costa del Sol.

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