A severe weather event has struck Gran Canaria, resulting in widespread flooding, particularly affecting the municipalities of Telde and Arucas. The heavy rainfall, which led to numerous emergency incidents, has been characterized by intense bursts of showering rain, with forecasts indicating these conditions are expected to ease this evening.
The 112 emergency services have reported receiving numerous calls concerning various incidents, primarily concentrated in the neighborhoods most severely impacted by the downpours. Many areas were plagued by flash floods, overflowing drains, and vehicles swept away by the fast-rising waters. Fortunately, authorities have noted no serious injuries requiring emergency intervention so far, but the disruption has been significant.
The hardest-hit zones include Telde's coastal areas and the Las Bachilleras ravine, along with neighborhoods such as Santidad and Juan XXIII located in Arucas. Further assessment revealed traffic bottlenecks near Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, albeit no direct incidents reported therein. The chaotic situation compelled road service authorities to close the La Laja tunnel heading south, causing considerable delays for commuters trying to enter the city.
By early afternoon, the Canary Government, through the General Directorate of Emergencies, raised the alert status concerning the weather across Gran Canaria. The alert, effective from 14:15, applied to six municipalities: Arucas, Teror, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Santa Brígida, Valsequillo, and Telde. Preemptively, they also issued pre-alerts for other islands within the archipelago, based on intelligence from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and detailed assessments keyed to the Specific Emergency Plan for the Canary Islands concerning adverse weather phenomena.
Residents were urged to heed self-protection advice from the emergency services, which included strategies for preparing for the anticipated heavy rainfall and the eventuality of flooding. Guidelines suggested people should inspect roofs, drainage systems, and related areas for maintenance, especially if living near ravines. Stay tuned to news updates for any guidance and avoid venturing out unnecessarily during harsh weather conditions.
The situation escalated on Monday as the Las Bachilleras ravine saw dramatic flooding. Local residents, unaware of the impending danger, had parked vehicles within the ravine's bed, which resulted in several cars being swept away as waters rushed down with alarming force. Eyewitness accounts revealed at least five vehicles were caught up as the torrent surged through the area.
Fortunately, amid the chaos, one neighbor became aware of another tenant, trapped inside her submerged vehicle. Unable to exit due to water pressure, the woman found herself stranded, with the rising currents threatening to engulf her car completely. Thankfully, this heroic neighbor intervened and managed to help her escape just before the relentless waters could carry her vehicle downstream.
The local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, acknowledging the communities’ resilience even under distressing circumstances. They have reiterated their commitment to providing support and ensuring safety for all residents. The broader weather conditions remain under evaluation, with residents encouraged to stay informed about updates.
Experts have also communicated the importance of preparedness, citing this latest weather event as another reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the need for everyone to take these alerts seriously. Citizens are reminded: if flooding occurs, always opt for safety by avoiding flooded areas and keeping emergency contacts, should situations arise requiring urgent assistance.
What will transpire next is uncertain, but the community's valiant efforts during this crisis reflect their spirit and solidarity. Rescue operations are clearly pivotal, but concerns linger about the potential aftermath and the broader effects of climate-related disruptions frequently irritating the region. Further updates will follow as recovery efforts commence and rainfall subsides, paving the way for recovery and assessment of damages.