Lanzarote Under Calima Pre-Alert as Dust Levels Rise Across the Island
Lanzarote is experiencing another spell of calima, with the Canary Islands Government issuing a pre-alert after concentrations of airborne dust increased across the island.
If you are currently in Lanzarote, you may have noticed the difference in the sky today. The usual clear blue horizon has become hazier, visibility has reduced in some areas and the familiar layer of fine Saharan dust is making its presence felt.
The Government of the Canary Islands has declared a pre-alert for calima affecting Lanzarote and La Graciosa, alongside Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria. The measure came into force at 1:30pm on Thursday, 3 September 2026.
Why is there calima in Lanzarote?
Calima is a regular weather phenomenon in the Canary Islands, caused by dust from the African continent being carried towards the islands by atmospheric conditions.
This latest episode is being closely monitored because of the amount of dust in suspension, particularly around Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and La Graciosa.
According to the emergency authorities, there is also the possibility of further developments over Africa producing additional quantities of dust which could subsequently reach the Canary Islands.
That means Lanzarote’s air quality could deteriorate further and visibility could become poorer over the coming hours.
What does the calima pre-alert mean?
A pre-alert does not mean that Lanzarote is facing a major emergency or that visitors need to panic.
It is essentially an official warning that conditions have reached a level where people should take sensible precautions, particularly if they are more vulnerable to the effects of airborne particles.
The current pre-alert covers:
- Lanzarote
- La Graciosa
- Fuerteventura
- Gran Canaria
The authorities say the situation will continue to be monitored and that the areas covered by the warning could be modified depending on how the calima develops.
Is calima dangerous in Lanzarote?
For most healthy people, a spell of calima is likely to be more of an inconvenience than a serious problem. However, high concentrations of airborne particles can be more problematic for people with chronic or respiratory conditions.
The Canary Islands Health Service explains that Saharan dust increases levels of particulate matter in the air. Research carried out in the islands has also found an association between calima episodes and increased respiratory health problems.
This is particularly worth remembering if you are visiting Lanzarote with asthma or another respiratory condition, or if you are travelling with young children or older relatives.
Advice for residents and tourists in Lanzarote
The Canary Islands Government recommends keeping doors and windows closed, particularly for people with chronic respiratory conditions.
It also recommends:
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Avoiding dry environments where possible.
- Making sure you have any regular medication you need.
- Avoiding strenuous outdoor exercise while the conditions persist.
- Taking extra care if you experience breathing difficulties or feel unwell.
- Taking care when driving because reduced visibility can make roads more hazardous.
If you do need to drive during the Lanzarote calima, the official advice is to reduce your speed, use your lights and take extra care because visibility can deteriorate considerably.
What does calima mean for your holiday?
For tourists, a calima day doesn’t necessarily mean your holiday is ruined.
Lanzarote still has plenty to offer, but it can be sensible to adjust your plans if the dust becomes particularly thick.
If you’re planning a long hike, strenuous cycle ride or other outdoor activity, check the latest conditions before setting off. Swimming, sightseeing and spending time outdoors may also feel less pleasant when the air is dusty and visibility is poor.
It is also worth remembering that Lanzarote weather can change quickly, and a hazy morning doesn’t necessarily tell you what conditions will be like later in the day.
If the calima is particularly strong, indoor attractions, restaurants, shopping and other activities can make good alternatives until conditions improve.
And if you’re wondering why your normally spectacular Lanzarote photographs suddenly look slightly washed out, the dust in the atmosphere is the likely culprit!
Will the calima get worse?
There is currently no guarantee that the episode will intensify, but authorities are warning that further dust could reach the islands.
The Government of the Canary Islands says new convective developments over Africa could result in additional dust being transported towards the archipelago, potentially increasing particle concentrations and reducing visibility further.
So, if you’re in Lanzarote today, it is worth keeping an eye on the latest Lanzarote air quality and weather updates, particularly if you have respiratory problems or are planning strenuous outdoor activities.
A familiar part of life in Lanzarote
Calima is nothing new to people who live in Lanzarote. It is part of life on an island so close to the African continent, and episodes can range from barely noticeable haze to much thicker conditions that leave a layer of dust across cars, balconies and outdoor furniture.
The important thing during a stronger episode is simply to take sensible precautions.
For now, the advice is straightforward: keep an eye on conditions, stay hydrated, take it easier outdoors and pay particular attention to official guidance if you are vulnerable to poor air quality.
The latest official information confirms that the Lanzarote calima pre-alert remains in place from 1:30pm on 3 September 2026, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation.
