The Canary Islands are facing significant disruptions as the Government of the Canary Islands has initiated multiple measures to safeguard public safety amid severe wind alerts linked to the storm system named Dorothea. On December 16, 2024, maximum alert conditions have been declared, affecting the islands of El Hierro, La Gomera, and parts of Tenerife, which have been warned about winds reaching alarming speeds.
According to reports from the Government, all personnel working for the administration of the autonomous community are recommended to work remotely, where possible, due to the forecast severe weather conditions. This teleworking initiative has been especially highlighted for those located on the most affected islands.
"The recommendation for teleworking applies to employees within the administration, provided their roles allow for remote fulfillment of duties," stated the Directorate General of Emergencies. On December 15, 2024, the alert status was escalated at 7:30 PM, indicating the intensity of the storm situation.
Leading the storm's impact, the affected municipalities within Tenerife include San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tegueste, Tacoronte, El Sauzal, La Matanza de Acentejo, La Victoria de Acentejo, Santa Úrsula, Puerto de la Cruz, and several others throughout the island. For residents on La Palma and other regions of Tenerife, alerts are active but not at the maximum status.
The emergency protocol emphasizes avoiding unnecessary travel, as indicated by the Civil Protection recommendations. The Government has also confirmed the closure of its Registry Offices on December 16, 2024, reiteratively allowing for electronic registrations instead. "Certain personnel, such as non-university educators and law enforcement on the islands, are exempt from the telework requirement and must follow specific directives from their respective departments," the report noted.
Local authorities have taken this decision after consulting with the State Meteorological Agency, which predicted winds from the east and southeast at speeds of 40 to 70 km/h. Dramatic gusts are expected to peak between 80 and 130 km/h. Recent recordings revealed winds exceeding 130 km/h at specific points within El Hierro and La Gomera, intensifying fears of hazardous conditions.
The emergency state covered by the Canary Islands' contingency plan for adverse weather risks (PEFMA) highlights the urgent need for vigilance and proactive measures among both residents and officials. Alerts also extend to Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote, which are currently under pre-alert status.
"We are continuously monitoring these weather conditions and will provide updated recommendations as necessary to safeguard our communities during this event," concluded the General Director of Public Function.
The overall impact of the storm is anticipated to strain resources across the islands, compelling both local governments to act swiftly and residents to stay alert to announcements, ensuring safety measures remain prioritized.
With the high likelihood of severe weather creating dangerous conditions, officials advocate for residents to remain indoors and refrain from venturing out unnecessarily. Measures enacted now are expected to be reviewed as weather forecasts evolve throughout the coming hours and days.
On several occasions, wind speeds have breached the safety thresholds deemed acceptable for public safety. Conversely, local weather stations hastened to remind the public of the historical precedents of severe storms correlatively disrupting life and infrastructure on the islands.
Finally, authorities continue to pledge their commitment to keeping the public informed through local news outlets and personal advisories, ensuring as few as possible face disruption from the impacts of storm Dorothea.
