The Canary Islands have once again showcased their remarkable weather extremes, particularly on Christmas Day, with Tenerife experiencing everything from hailstorms and snowfall to balmy temperatures. These dramatic contrasts not only intrigued locals but also cast light on the island's unique climate.
On Christmas Day, the Tenerife Cabildo announced the full restoration of access to Teide National Park as workers completed the laborious task of clearing ice and debris. Key routes, including the TF-21 (La Orotava-Vilaflor) and TF-38 (Chío), are now reopened, marking the return to safer travel for visitors eager to experience the beauty of the iconic landmark.
Cabildo President Rosa Dávila confirmed the good news, stating, "All access roads to Teide are now open, but we ask drivers to be cautious, respect road signs, and follow the instructions of the authorities. Safety remains our top priority, which is why we initially closed the routes. Now, we encourage careful driving."
Workers have been laboring diligently for four days to clear obstacles posed by heavy snowfall and landslides. Roads Councillor Dámaso Arteaga emphasized the challenges faced this Christmas, as extreme weather conditions made maintenance particularly difficult. "Maintenance crews have been working since Sunday to reopen these routes as quickly as possible. We call on the public to be prudent when driving on these roads," Arteaga urged.
Meanwhile, Tenerife was not alone in experiencing dramatic weather throughout the archipelago. The State Meteorological Agency reported the highest rainfall totals, strongest winds, and warmest temperatures across Spain on Christmas. Most notable was the rare hailstorm captured on video around 6:00 PM local time in El Tanque, Tenerife, occurring alongside wintry conditions at higher altitudes.
These wintry conditions extended to other peaks, especially at Chasna and points within Teide National Park, where snowfall delighted both locals and visitors. The heaviest rainfall, measured at Roque de Los Muchachos on La Palma, reached 26.6 litres per square meter, affirming the archipelago's dramatic climatic contrasts.
Despite these wintry conditions, the Canary Islands also basked under the sun, recording the highest temperatures across Spain for the day. Vallehermoso, La Gomera experienced exceptional warmth, reaching 26.4°C, followed closely by Las Palmas de Gran Canaria at 26.1°C. Other warm spots included Agaete at 25.7°C and Gran Canaria airport at 25.3°C.
The day served as a vivid reminder of the Canary Islands' climate diversity, showcasing hail and snow on one end and beach-weather sunshine on the other, charming visitors globally.
Yet, with weather systems generating severe winds at higher altitudes, the islands remain ever-alert. The Izaña weather station recorded gusts of up to 93 km/h, with sustained winds reaching 80 km/h, contributing to the unpredictable weather patterns seen across the region. The strong winds were attributable to DANA, or Cold Air Pool, enhancing the climatic impact.
Overall, the blending of winter weather and balmy seaside temperatures proves just how extraordinary the Canary Islands can be, enticing adventurers to explore both snowy peaks and sunny beaches. The restoration of the TF-24 road to Teide is poised to welcome tourists back as they discover the remarkable contrasts the island has to offer this festive season.
