Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Dublin Live
Dublin Live
National
Gavin O'Callaghan

Flights from Dublin Airport to Canary Islands affected as 'apocalyptic' sandstorm rages

Flights in and out of The Canary Islands have been grounded as a huge sandstorm has raged over the popular tourist spot.

Both Lanzarote and Fuerteventura have been hit by the "apocalyptic" storm as the Sahara desert sand dust covers the airports.

Last night all flights in and out of Grand Canaria and Tenerife were delayed leaving thousands of people stranded.

Flights in and out of the area have been delayed or cancelled.

One Aer Lingus flight going from Dublin Airport today turned around midway and headed back to Dublin.

The sandstorm can be seen from space (Met Office)

Some people remaining are reporting difficulty breathing and seeing with residents being advised to stay indoors until it passes over.

Winds of up to 100kph have been recorded and expected to run into Monday.

The Canary Government has also issued an official alert for all of the islands tonight for very strong winds and has warned people to take every care.

The regional government declared a state of alert and advised people to keep doors and windows closed.

The 'calima' is expected to affect the Canary Islands for at least three days and people who suffer from chest or breathing problems are being advised not to go out.

Authorities in Lanzarote’s capital Arrecife, canceled all outdoor activities, including some carnival celebrations.

The Met Office has tweeted: "A #Sandstorm is currently affecting #Fuerteventura and #Lanzarote locally known as a #Calima.

"This Saharan dust may spread across the rest of the Canaries over the coming days."

At one stage, visibility at Gran Canaria airport was down to 400metres.

There is no indication yet as to when the airports of Tenerife and Gran Canaria will be back to normal.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.