The Canary Islands are under an amber weather alert following a period of devastating conditions that have claimed three lives and left fifteen people injured. The archipelago is bracing for further severe weather, with Spain's national weather agency, Aemet, issuing critical warnings for storms, heavy rain, and strong winds.
Widespread Weather Warnings and Forecast
Aemet has placed amber alerts for rain specifically for La Palma and southern Tenerife for Wednesday, November 12. Forecasters predict up to 100mm of precipitation could fall within a 12-hour period in southern Tenerife, raising significant flood risks. Other islands, including El Hierro, La Gomera, and North Tenerife, are under a less severe yellow warning for rain.
The situation is expected to deteriorate further by Thursday, November 13. The amber rain alert will then extend to cover La Palma, southern Tenerife, and southern Gran Canaria. Yellow rain warnings will also be in place for El Hierro, La Gomera, Northern Tenerife, and Lanzarote.
Coastal Dangers and Wind Alerts
In addition to the rain, powerful winds are a major concern. Wind alerts have been issued for El Hierro, La Gomera, La Palma, and Tenerife, with gusts predicted to reach speeds of 50 to 60 km/h, classified as force seven. Aemet has also activated coastal warnings for the northern coastlines of Tenerife and Gran Canaria starting Wednesday. By Thursday, these coastal warnings are forecast to cover all islands except La Gomera.
The alerts follow a tragic incident where terrifyingly powerful waves struck the islands, resulting in three fatalities and injuries to fifteen others. In response, emergency services issued a stark warning to the public on Sunday, November 9, urging people to stay away from coastal paths and to refrain from taking photographs or videos of the dangerous seas.
Official Pre-Alert and Public Safety Advice
The regional government of the Canary Islands declared a state of pre-alert for the entire archipelago on November 7, a status that remains in force. This official warning emphasises the need for the public to adhere strictly to all safety guidance.
Authorities are advising residents and visitors to avoid driving on roads near the shoreline where possible. Furthermore, swimming on red flag beaches is prohibited, and people are warned not to stand at the end of piers or breakwaters due to the risk of being swept away by sudden large waves. The public is encouraged to monitor official updates as the severe weather continues to impact the region.
