What is fog?

In Gran Canaria, weather conditions are unique and fog is one the most fascinating atmospheric conditions displyed.

But what is fog?

Quite simply, it's a cloud that touches the ground.

Fog is made up of tiny droplets of water. Because of their small size, these droplets move horizontally with the wind.

How does it form?

There are many types of fog around the world, but in Gran Canaria, most fog is 'advection fog'. When the air cools, condensing water vapour into droplets. This happens with the movement of warm and humid air. Water needs a surface to condensate. Such a surface usually available are particles (dust, pollen, ...), they are called 'condensation nuclei'.

What's FOG composition?

Many people think that fog is distilled water, but the condensation nuclei determine the physical and chemical quality of the water and allow it to be loaded with salt and minerals.

What role does it play?

In regions where fog is common, droplets are captured by vegetation. These droplets accumulate on the leaves and form larger drops that fall to the ground. This natural process of fog collection is essential for tropical forests and is a valuable source of water.

What about water collection?

Collection is linked to geographical features such as altitude, distance from the ocean, and exposure.

Atmospheric parameters are also essential: liquid water content, duration of the fog episode and wind speed. The more air passes through a collector, the more drops will be collected.

Fog is not only a fascinating meteorological phenomenon; it also plays a crucial role in the ecological balance in Gran Canaria. Fog is the dominant source of water during dry summers and supports plant life.