Heavy rainfall and adverse weather warnings have been issued for the Canary Islands, as Aemet, Spain's national weather agency, put the archipelago under yellow alert due to predicted storms. On March 3, 2025, provinces including Tenerife, El Hierro, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, and La Palma are expecting showers, with forecasters predicting "locally heavy showers" primarily affecting the mountainous areas. Rain and thunderstorms could also impact Lanzarote and Fuerteventura later in the day.
The weather situation worsened over the weekend, prompting the government to establish a 'state of pre-alert' on March 1. This measure, which came officially to life around 3 am local time on March 3, warned residents of "intense storms" projected between 12 pm and 6 pm, particularly impacting western islands and Gran Canaria.
According to Aemet, there is a "high likelihood of locally heavy rain," accompanied by snow predicted on the heights of La Palma and Tenerife. Monday's forecast indicates potential thunderstorms and light hail, particularly around the peaks and highly elevated areas of these islands.
"Heavy showers are likely on the mountainous islands, mainly on the north and north-west slopes," Aemet mentioned, underscoring the geographical specificity of the weather impacts. By Tuesday, additional regions such as Lanzarote and Fuerteventura will also be placed under yellow alert for rain. Reports note improvements expected by Wednesday, signaling the removal of warnings, albeit some showers may still linger.
The weekend's heavy rainfall has already created challenges for residents, and the government is poised to enforce the Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA). Municipalities such as Arucas, Teror, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Santa Brígida, Valsequillo, and Telde are on higher alert and preparations are underway to address the predicted intense conditions.
With many locals bracing for potential disruption, transport services have begun to make adjustments. The region's natural beauty, particularly appreciated by tourists and locals alike, stands to be significantly impacted if conditions deteriorate.
Weather experts have warned of the dangers associated with these conditions as they could lead to flooding, landslides, and other hazards. The government’s proactive response highlights the potential risks to both day-to-day life and tourism, which is central to the local economy.
Snowfall is also expected over the higher altitudes of both La Palma and Tenerife, which could delight tourists but poses additional risks on the roads—particularly hazardous with ice formation reported on sections of roadway such as the GC-130, which has prompted the winter service response on Gran Canaria.
The public has been advised to stay updated with official alerts and prepare for significant weather changes. Statements from local officials indicate, “The population is urged to take precautions and heed any recommendations issued by emergency services.”
Looking forward, the outlook appears more stable by March 5, 2025, with forecasts describing conditions as predominantly cloudy with light to moderate rain. Authorities continue to monitor the weather patterns closely, ready to react should conditions worsen.
This sharp shift from clear skies to weather warnings serves as a reminder of the Canary Islands' unpredictable spring weather, and the quick response by local government aims to mitigate any adverse effects on the community's infrastructure and overall safety.