A severe storm wreaked havoc on the popular holiday island of Lanzarote over the weekend, leading to widespread flooding and chaos. On Saturday, April 12, 2025, nearly 100 liters of rain fell in some areas within just a couple of hours, transforming streets into rivers and causing extensive damage across the island.
The regional government declared a state of emergency after receiving over 300 emergency calls, primarily from the capital, Arrecife, and the nearby resort of Costa Teguise. Oswaldo Betancort, President of the Cabildo of Lanzarote, described the sudden downpours as causing "hours of chaos and uncertainty." Many residents and tourists found themselves in precarious situations as roads were washed away, homes were flooded, and vehicles were stranded.
In Arrecife, 61 liters of rain were measured within two hours, while Costa Teguise experienced even heavier rainfall, totaling 97.5 liters per square meter. Enrique Espinosa, head of emergency services on Lanzarote, reported that emergency teams worked throughout the night to respond to the crisis. "We received around 300 emergency calls, many of which came from Arrecife and Teguise," he stated during an interview with state television RTVE.
The flooding caused significant disruptions to local infrastructure, with many streets rendered impassable and several hotels needing to be evacuated. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported, although several homes were inundated with mud and debris. The state of emergency was lifted on Sunday, April 13, 2025, but cleanup efforts continued as authorities worked to restore normalcy.
Travelers to Lanzarote are advised to stay informed about the weather and any restrictions that may affect their plans. The Spanish weather service, Aemet, provides official updates, and visitors are encouraged to contact their accommodations for the latest information.
This extreme weather event is part of a worrying trend, as the Canary Islands have been hit by severe storms more frequently in recent years. Just last month, Gran Canaria faced similar conditions, highlighting a growing concern regarding climate patterns in the region. Experts attribute these increasingly severe storms to unusually high sea temperatures, which contribute to the formation of intense weather systems when they interact with cold air masses.
As Lanzarote typically enjoys a dry climate, the sudden deluge has left many residents and experts pondering whether this is a one-off occurrence or a sign of more frequent severe weather to come. The island, known for its unique volcanic landscapes and wine production, has historically utilized specialized agricultural techniques to cope with its arid conditions, but the recent storms have challenged these adaptations.
In addition to the flooding crisis, the UK has implemented a ban on the private import of meat and dairy products from the European Union due to the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. This decision adds another layer of complexity for travelers and businesses alike, as the implications of such regulations are felt across the industry.
Meanwhile, Antigua and Barbuda are modernizing their entry process for air travelers, requiring online registration before arrival. This new initiative aims to streamline airport operations and reduce waiting times for incoming flights, a move that could serve as a model for other tourist destinations in the Caribbean.
As the cleanup continues on Lanzarote and authorities assess the damage, the island's residents remain hopeful for a swift recovery. With summer tourism just around the corner, many are eager to return to the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant culture that make Lanzarote a beloved destination for millions.
In light of the recent storms, local officials are urging residents and visitors to remain vigilant and prepared for any future weather events. The extraordinary rainfall serves as a stark reminder of the changing climate and the need for communities to adapt to new realities.
As Lanzarote begins to recover, the focus will not only be on rebuilding but also on ensuring that such extreme weather events do not become the new normal. With ongoing discussions about climate adaptation and infrastructure resilience, the island's future may depend on how well it can respond to the challenges posed by a warming planet.
