Authorities in Tenerife have activated emergency plans as Storm Therese brings severe weather, including heavy rain, strong winds, and snowfall, across the Canary Islands.
The storm has already forced the cancellation of outdoor events, road closures, and flight disruptions, with warnings expected to remain in place throughout the weekend. High-altitude areas around Mount Teide have seen significant snowfall, while lower regions face the threat of flooding and landslides.
Spain’s weather agency, AEMET, has issued orange alerts for Tenerife, warning that wind gusts in northern areas could reach up to 100 km/h. Southern parts of the island are bracing for intense rainfall, with as much as 100mm forecast within 12 hours, raising concerns over flash floods and transport disruption.
The Cabildo de Tenerife has urged residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and follow safety guidance. Emergency shelters have been opened, and access to key routes, including roads leading to Teide National Park, has been restricted.
Neighbouring islands such as Gran Canaria, La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro are also under weather warnings, with coastal areas facing waves of up to six metres, creating hazardous sea conditions.
Despite the Canary Islands’ reputation as a year-round sun destination, snowfall on Mount Teide—Spain’s highest peak at 3,718 metres—is not uncommon during winter and early spring due to its high elevation.
Storm Therese, named earlier this week by Portuguese meteorological authorities, is the 19th named storm of the season in southwest Europe—a record since the regional naming system was introduced in 2017. Meteorologists warn that if more storms develop before August, additional names may be drawn from a reserve list.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve by Sunday, although lingering showers and lower-level weather warnings may persist into early next week.
