A large dust plume is expected to sweep through a popular vacation destination, prompting residents and tourists to close their windows to avoid the potential orange skies caused by the haze.
Saharan dust carried by strong winds is set to reach the Canary Islands shortly after a man was tragically discovered dead in Tenerife following unprecedented rainfall from Storm Therese.
Government warnings have been issued in anticipation of the haze, scheduled to arrive around noon today. Yellow weather alerts are currently in effect across the Canary Islands due to strong winds, suspended Saharan dust, and coastal conditions.
The coastal yellow alerts signal rough seas, strong winds, and large swells that could impact shorelines and ferry routes, advising people to exercise caution near beaches and harbors.
The dust warning pertains to islands like Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura, which are popular destinations for British tourists.
Warnings for coastal and wind-related hazards remain in place for Tenerife, El Hierro, La Gomera, La Palma, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria, urging vigilance in exposed areas.
In 2024, nearly 6.3 million British tourists visited the Canary Islands, making the UK the primary source of visitors to the region.
Experts anticipate that mid-altitude areas and the highest points on the islands will be most affected by the airborne dust, potentially impacting air quality and visibility. Concerns about health risks are heightened as the dust may pose respiratory issues, particularly for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.
Individuals with chronic respiratory ailments are advised to wear masks outdoors, while all residents are instructed to keep windows shut and avoid outdoor exercise. Drivers are reminded to exercise caution on roads due to reduced visibility when the dust settles in the area later today and tomorrow.
These precautions follow the recent impacts of Storm Theresa, which brought over 700 liters of rain per square meter to certain areas, resulting in severe flooding and emergency alerts sent across the region.
Island president Rosa Dávila emphasized the importance of public safety amidst the changing weather conditions following the tragic discovery of a deceased man in El Draguillo, near Benijo, by two tourists who sought shelter from inclement weather conditions.
