Calima (Saharan sand)

Common card · No. 473647

Calima or Kalima is a term used to describe a meteorological phenomenon that occurs when fine sand and dust particles from the Sahara are lifted into the atmosphere and transported by prevailing winds. It usually happens in the summer and lasts 3–5 days. Record-breaking historical episodes (with PM2.5 and PM10 in Spain and Portugal exceeding WHO safe limits 10-fold or more) have been recorded in the winter and early spring.

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