Calima Coming To The Costa Del Sol

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Calima Coming To The Costa Del Sol. The sand cloud phenomenon is expected to return to the Costa Del Sol this week along with “blood rain” on Friday.

Calima Coming To The Costa Del Sol

A calima is expected to darken the skies on the Costa Del Sol this week. The Saharan sand cloud should be noticeable on Tuesday (21st April). Conditions will become more hazy on Wednesday, with the sand concentration in the air peaking on Thursday and Friday (24th April). Spain’s national weather agency AEMET is also forecasting rain showers on Friday, which may cause the “blood rain” associated with a calima.

Click here to see the latest weather forecast for the Costa Del Sol.

What Is A Calima?

The phenomenon known as “calima” is a haze caused by sand which has been blown from the Sahara desert. Skies on the Costa Del Sol can turn orange, and sometimes bright red. The calima can leave a sandy coating on buildings, cars, and footpaths.

Calima can cause a red haze. Photo by Olivia Longman.

Calima can also be a health hazard to people with respiratory problems and allergies. It is known to cause symptoms such as coughing, nasal congestion, eye irritation, and headaches.

The impact of a calima is dramatically increased if it rains. This causes a muddy silt to be deposited which can make driving conditions difficult and create problems for outdoor facilities including swimming pools.

Published: 20.04.2026

Written by Dave James.