Tourists heading to popular Spain have been warned about an unusual meteorological phenomenon — “bloody rain”, which can lead to flight delays and other difficulties.
According to Spanish media, the meteorological phenomenon is caused by streams of dust, which is transported from the Sahara Desert by winds over long distances and, when mixed with rain, creates the effect of a “blood rain”. The phenomenon even has an official name – kalima.
This can occur in areas bordering the Sahara, including the Canary Islands and sometimes even Southern Europe. Kalima is usually characterized as a dry, dusty wind that can cause reduced visibility and changes in air quality. In this phenomenon, the sky often acquires a yellowish or reddish, blood-like hue due to dust particles carried in the air.
The dust, which began to spread on April 5, has already reached Andalusia and the Eastern Canary Islands. It is expected that the haze will even reach the Scandinavian Peninsula in Northern Europe, which is occupied by Norway and Sweden, as well as part of northern Finland.
It was clarified that the recent heat wave in Spain, when the temperature rose above +30 degrees Celsius, contributed to the intensification of this phenomenon. On Sunday, April 7, a “blood rain” fell on the entire south and center of Spain, including regions such as Andalusia, Castile-La Mancha, Extremadura and Madrid. And on Monday, April 8, it is expected that the dust will begin to dissipate under the influence of the Atlantic front, which will change the direction of the winds.
Forecasters warned that this haze from dust impairs visibility and becomes a problem for people with lung diseases. In addition, flights are usually delayed or canceled at this time. In this regard, the authorities and experts advised people with respiratory diseases to take the necessary precautions: if possible, do not leave the premises or wear special protective masks.
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