The Canary Islands are bracing for severe weather this week, as the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued warnings for heavy rainfall across several islands, with Gran Canaria and Telde particularly affected. The forecast anticipates not just rain, but also potential snow on higher mountains, such as Teide, and even the risk of thunderstorms and small hail across various locations.
According to AEMET, Monday, March 3, 2025, will see significant weather activity throughout the islands. Heavy showers are expected to affect the mountainous areas, particularly Gran Canaria, where moderate rainfall is coupled with warnings for possible heavy precipitation. Specifically for Gran Canaria, the skies will predominantly remain cloudy to overcast, with forecasts predicting moderate rainfall and potential heavy showers, especially around the island's interior regions.
The AEMET report highlights the cold front moving through the Canary Islands, which is contributing to these weather conditions. The outlook shows snow levels dropping between 2,200 and 2,400 meters, particularly affecting the summit of Teide. Temperatures throughout the islands are expected to remain steady, with forecasts indicating lows of 14°C and highs reaching up to 22°C for Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, and slightly cooler on Gran Canaria at 19°C.
Residents have already begun feeling the effects of the inclement weather. Telde, located on Gran Canaria, is one of the hardest hit municipalities from the deluge. Reports indicate significant flooding, especially at Playa Salinetas Beach where the intense rainfall resulted in the flooding sweeping away parked vehicles. "The heavy rain alert declared by the Canary Islands Government for Gran Canaria has already led to incidents," explains municipal authorities. Emergency services are on high alert, monitoring the situation as water levels rise rapidly.
Local government authorities have cautioned residents to remain vigilant, advising them to avoid unnecessary travel and to take extra precautions, especially those living in flood-prone areas. Emergency teams are deployed as they assess damage and manage the response to the storm. "The Canary Islands Government continues to monitor the weather conditions closely, with updates as we respond to the impacts of the storm," stressed local officials.
Island-wide, AEMET's forecasts for Monday show each island will experience varying degrees of cloud cover and rain. Lanzarote will start the day partly cloudy, transitioning to light to moderate rain by afternoon, with temperatures stable around 22°C. Fuerteventura's weather will mirror Lanzarote, with the day initially presenting some cloud cover but becoming overcast later, also with highs around 21°C.
Tenerife too is set for rain, with expectations of moderate showers and the risk of storms, particularly during the early morning. The weather on Tenerife, similar to its neighboring islands, will include the possibility of snow at higher altitudes, with conditions predicting low temperatures and light frost likely.
The overall weather outlook remains bleak with heavy showers forecasted throughout the week, raising concerns for public safety and infrastructure stability across the islands. Authorities are urging communities to remain informed and prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Emergency preparedness could be key as the continuation of adverse weather patterns may lead to more incidents like the unfortunate flooding seen today.
With light winds expected predominantly from the north and moderate sea conditions exacerbated by northern swells, safety officials will remain vigilant against the risk of additional flooding and property damage on all affected islands. Residents and tourists alike are advised to stay tuned for updates as the situation develops.