The (in)famous Terral wind
If you’ve been in Malaga during the summer, the chances are that you’ve experienced the dreaded Terral.
This weather phenomenon is notorious among locals and tourists alike for its intense and often unbearable heat.
Temperatures shoot up and the dry heat makes it feel like you’re in an oven. The usually mild Mediterranean climate is suddenly replaced by scorching conditions that can be quite a shock to the system.
But what is it exactly?
Does the Terral come from Africa?
Many think, given Malaga’s proximity to Africa, that this is a phenomenon that comes from the Sahara. However, that’s not true. The misconception is understandable, considering how the Terral’s searing heat mirrors that of a desert wind.
In fact, the Terral is a wind that comes from the north-west and heats up significantly on its journey south until arriving at the coast. This process involves descending air masses that compress and warm up due to the increase in atmospheric pressure. By the time the wind reaches Malaga, it has transformed into a blisteringly hot and dry force of nature.
On the western Costa del Sol, this can be broken up by the mountains near Ronda. In Malaga, however, it surges through the Guadalhorce valley and temperatures go through the roof – often in excess of 40 degrees Celsius.
How long does Terral normally last?
Luckily, though, this is only temporary, and on average, it lasts for anywhere between a few hours and three days.
However, it can (and does) strike more than once throughout the year, especially in the summer months. These heatwaves, especially if they come back-to-back, can be quite challenging, especially for those unaccustomed to such extreme conditions.
How to prepare for Terral
For the residents of Malaga, the Terral is a known adversary, and they have developed various strategies to cope with it.
Staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and seeking refuge in air-conditioned spaces are common survival tactics.
Tourists are often advised to follow these practices to ensure their safety and comfort during a Terral episode.
If you find yourself in Malaga during one of these heatwaves, it is important to take precautions. Wear light, breathable clothing, use sunscreen to protect your skin and keep plenty of water on hand.
The local authorities and weather services usually provide timely updates and warnings about impending Terral winds, so staying informed can help you prepare and adapt accordingly.
For more tips and tricks on how to survive the Terral, click here.
Daryl is the co-founder of Malaga Guru. He is a copywriter, editor and translator who moved to Malaga a decade ago having first fallen in love with the city on his Erasmus year. After working for many years at local expat newspaper SUR in English, Daryl gained expert knowledge in life from the perspective of foreign residents and decided to co-found this site in 2016.