After squall Dorothea swept through the Canary Islands with winds reaching 140 km/h, sea storms, and calima that disrupted air quality and visibility, a new weather phenomenon looms on the horizon. The Canary Islands are now bracing for an Isolated High-Level Depression (DANA), which meteorologists predict will bring more intense rainfall and thunderstorms than its predecessor, Dorothea. However, the winds accompanying this system are expected to be less severe, according to Meteored.
What to Expect with the DANA
Saturday:
- Cloud Formation and Rainfall: The day will begin with increasing cloud cover and moderate rainfall, particularly intensifying in the northern regions of Tenerife, La Palma, and Gran Canaria.
- Thunderstorms: These areas will also experience thunderstorms, with a higher intensity than those recorded during Dorothea.
Temperature Changes:
- A significant drop in temperatures is expected, with daytime highs falling below 20 °C.
- Northeasterly Winds: Winds will strengthen, particularly on exposed slopes and higher-altitude areas.
Sunday:
- Rain Across the Archipelago: By Sunday, the entire archipelago will feel the effects of the DANA. The western islands will bear the brunt of the rain, with particularly heavy downpours expected.
- Snowfall at Higher Altitudes: The cooling temperatures at altitude mean snowfall is possible on the summits of Teide (Tenerife) and Roque de los Muchachos (La Palma).
Monday
- Peak Intensity: The core of the DANA will reach its maximum strength, bringing heavy and persistent rain across the higher islands.
- Thunderstorms and Winds: Intense thunderstorms will dominate the day, though storm activity is expected to diminish by evening.
- Wind Gusts: Despite the reduction in thunderstorms, strong wind gusts will continue, particularly in high-altitude and exposed areas.
Gradual Stabilisation by Tuesday
By Tuesday, the DANA is forecast to begin moving westward into the Atlantic, leading to a gradual reduction in its impact:
- Residual Showers: Light rainfall may linger in the westernmost parts of the archipelago.
- Temperature Recovery: Temperatures will start to rise, and weather conditions will begin to stabilise.
Precautionary Measures and Recommendations
With the DANA bringing such a dynamic and potentially hazardous scenario, authorities are urging the public to:
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather updates from official sources, including Meteored and local emergency services.
- Exercise Caution: Avoid traveling or engaging in outdoor activities in areas where heavy rain, storms, or strong winds are forecast.
- Prepare for Localised Impacts: Be aware of potential flooding, landslides, and hazardous road conditions, particularly in mountainous or exposed areas.
This DANA event highlights the unpredictable nature of weather in the Canary Islands and the importance of preparedness. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this period of intense meteorological activity.
