The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has revised its weather warnings for the Canary Islands, updating the existing yellow alerts for rain and wind and introducing new advisories, particularly for La Palma. These changes reflect the latest forecasts, which indicate the potential for heavy rainfall and strong winds across several islands.
Rainfall Forecast and Probability by Region
The updated weather forecast warns of intense rainfall, with the possibility of accumulating up to 15 mm in just one hour. The likelihood of such rainfall varies by location:
- La Palma: The probability of heavy showers ranges between 40% and 70%, especially in high-altitude areas, as well as the western and northern slopes of the island.
- El Hierro & North Tenerife: A lower probability of 10% to 40% has been forecasted for these regions.
- Lanzarote: The island is expected to experience short but intense downpours.
Strong Wind Warnings and Affected Areas
In addition to the risk of rain, strong winds are anticipated across several islands, with gusts reaching speeds of up to 70 km/h. The most affected areas include:
- La Palma: Strongest gusts will be concentrated on the exposed summits and midlands, as well as the eastern and western regions.
- El Hierro & Metropolitan Tenerife: Similar wind conditions are expected, particularly in the midlands and high-altitude areas, where north-westerly winds will be predominant.
Coastal Warnings: High Waves and Rough Seas
AEMET has also issued a marine warning, predicting rough sea conditions around several islands. The north-westerly swell is expected to create waves between 4 and 5 metres high, with wave periods of approximately 14 seconds. This will primarily affect the northern and north-western coastlines of:
- La Palma
- El Hierro
- Tenerife
- La Gomera
- Gran Canaria
- Lanzarote
- Fuerteventura
Residents and seafarers in these areas are advised to exercise extreme caution due to potentially hazardous sea conditions.
Weather Outlook for Tuesday
On Tuesday, adverse weather conditions will persist, with significant variations throughout the day:
- Early Morning:
- Very strong westerly wind gusts will affect the summits of La Palma and Tenerife.
- Locally heavy showers are expected in the northern half of La Palma, extending to the north of Tenerife and El Hierro.
- Morning to Midday:
- The western islands will start the day with cloudy skies, which will gradually clear, leading to partly cloudy conditions on the southern slopes.
- Showers will persist in northern areas, especially during the first half of the day.
- Afternoon:
- Rainfall is expected to shift towards the eastern slopes of the central islands, bringing further showers later in the day.
Temperature Changes and Wind Shifts
Temperature Trends
- Minimum temperatures will experience a slight increase, particularly in the eastern islands.
- Maximum temperatures will vary:
- Warmer conditions expected on the south and east coasts.
- Cooler temperatures in the northern midlands.
Wind Shifts by Region
- Eastern Province (Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria):
- Winds will be south-westerly in the morning but will shift and strengthen to north-westerly from midday onwards.
- Western Islands (Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro):
- Westerly winds will dominate from the early hours of the day, with occasional strong gusts on exposed slopes.
Recommendations and Precautions
Given the updated warnings, residents and visitors in the Canary Islands are advised to:
- Stay informed through official weather updates.
- Exercise caution when travelling, especially in areas prone to strong winds or heavy rain.
- Avoid coastal areas affected by high waves and rough seas.
- Secure outdoor objects that could be displaced by strong gusts.
