In the coming days, Spain will be affected by a meteorological phenomenon that has already become common: the “blood rain”, a phenomenon where precipitation drags the dust from the Sahara and deposits it in the form of reddish mud. The AEMET has issued a warning for rain that will begin on Thursday and could last until the weekend.
In Spain, “blood rain”, also known as mud rain, is a phenomenon that occurs during haze events, when suspended dust transported from the Sahara Desert mixes with rain.This dust can turn water droplets red or brown, creating the appearance of blood rain. Calima is especially common in spring and summer, when atmospheric conditions are conducive to transporting Saharan dust towards Europe.
During these events, the atmosphere becomes turbid and the air may appear thicker due to the presence of mineral particles such as iron oxides. Although the phenomenon is visually striking, it does not usually have serious effects on health or the environment, although it can cause soiling of outdoor surfaces and affect visibility.
When will the “rain of blood” take place?
The Isolated Depression at High Levels (DANA) has already begun to hit several points of the Iberian Peninsula this Wednesday, but it will not be until this Thursday that the Sahara dust will arrive to give the sky that characteristic reddish tone.According to AEMET: “during the last days of August and the beginning of September there will be intense thunderstorms in many areas.”
???? UPDATE | Showers and thunderstorms in large areas of the Peninsula.
During the last days of August and the beginning of September there will be intense thunderstorm showers in many areas.
Stay informed about the weather forecast and current warnings.
— AEMET (@AEMET_Esp) August 28, 2024
Dust concentrations are expected to be low in the southern part of the peninsula, but as the day progresses they could increase, resulting in these mud showers.
By Friday, the concentration of suspended dust is expected to increase significantly across most of Spain, which could lead to dusty skies and episodes of “blood rain.” This phenomenon will mainly affect the eastern regions, such as the Valencian Community and Catalonia, although these areas will be less impacted by the DANA. However, they could experience isolated showers mixed with this suspended dust.
During the weekend, haze will persist in much of the country. This combination of dust and atmospheric instability could cause this rain to recur in various areas. It is important to take these weather conditions into account, as they can affect air quality and visibility.
Recommendations for dealing with the “rain of blood”
- Avoid going outdoors: If possible, limit your outdoor exposure during and after a blood rain episode, especially if you have respiratory problems such as asthma or allergies.
- Close windows and doors: Keep windows and doors closed to prevent dust from entering your home.
- Clean frequently: Clean accumulated dust from indoor and outdoor surfaces, such as furniture and vehicles, to prevent it from building up and causing problems.
- Water your plants: Dust can harm plants, so water your garden after blood rain to help clean away any accumulated dust on the leaves.
- Check the weather forecast: Stay tuned for weather updates to know when blood rain is expected and plan accordingly.
- Drive with caution: Visibility can be reduced during a rain storm, so drive carefully and adjust your speed according to road conditions.
