Thursday Weather: Calima Returns as Temperatures Surge to 34°C Across the Canary Islands

CANARY ISLANDS – The Canary Islands are bracing for a notably hot and hazy day today, Thursday, July 16th, 2026. According to the latest official update from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), the archipelago is experiencing the return of the "Calima"—a weather phenomenon bringing airborne African dust to the higher levels of the atmosphere—causing temperatures to climb as high as 34°C in several parts of the islands.

While the highest temperatures are expected to concentrate across the inland plains of Fuerteventura and the mid-altitude zones of Gran Canaria, much of the rest of the region will still enjoy sunny skies. The only exceptions are the northern coastlines, which may see some brief early morning and evening cloud cover before clearing. The light haze aloft, particularly noticeable over Gran Canaria and Tenerife's higher ground, is expected to slightly reduce horizontal visibility and create a warmer, drier atmosphere than usual.

Coastal Relief: Why the Coast Remains the Place to Be

Despite the incoming heatwave and haze over the peaks, the coastal areas of southern Tenerife are expected to benefit from refreshing sea breezes. Temperatures along the southern coastlines will remain much more comfortable than inland zones, peaking around 30°C to 32°C.

This makes coastal locations the absolute best refuge from the summer heat. For travelers currently staying in premium holiday apartments in los cristianos , this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the cooling maritime breeze on a private terrace or take a refreshing dip at Las Vistas Beach. Staying close to the ocean allows visitors to enjoy the sunny island climate comfortably, completely bypassing the more intense inland heat.

Island-by-Island Weather Forecast for Thursday, July 16th, 2026:

• Tenerife: Cloudy intervals are expected below 700 to 800 meters along the northern coast during the morning and evening, with clear, sunny skies dominating the rest of the island. Minimum temperatures will rise slightly, especially in the midlands, while daytime highs will hover around 30°C to 32°C in the south and east. Overnight, some coastal and southern spots may experience "tropical nights," with temperatures not dropping below 24°C to 26°C. Moderate north-easterly winds will blow on the coasts, while the peaks of Teide will see light south-westerly winds.
• Gran Canaria: Northern coastal areas below 700 meters will see morning and evening clouds, while the rest of the island enjoys bright sunshine. Light calima will affect higher ground, and temperatures will rise significantly in inland areas. The Tirajana basin, the southeast, and the western interior could see peaks of up to 34°C. Strong north-easterly winds are forecast for the southeast and northwest coasts, with very strong gusts expected during the afternoon.
• Lanzarote: Mostly sunny with occasional early and late clouds in the north. Temperatures will remain steady or rise slightly, reaching up to 32°C in the southeast. Moderate north-easterly winds will strengthen inland by the afternoon.
• Fuerteventura: Generally clear skies with some early morning clouds in the west. Temperatures are on the rise, peaking between 32°C and 34°C in the southern interior. Strong north-easterly winds are expected around the Jandía peninsula, with very strong gusts possible later in the day.

Navigating the Warm Spell at Sea

For those planning boat excursions or water sports today, conditions at sea will remain relatively favorable but lively. North-easterly winds of Force 4 to 5 will generate slight to moderate seas on open waters, though conditions will ease to lighter, more variable winds along the sheltered southwestern coastlines of Tenerife and Gran Canaria. A stable, one-meter north-westerly swell is also forecast, making it a great day for coastal marine activities as long as standard safety guidelines are followed.