The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued an update on the weather conditions in the Canary Islands, confirming that the first snowflakes of the season have fallen on Tenerife’s highest peaks. As the region experiences an intensification of adverse weather conditions, authorities have declared a state of pre-alert for rain and snow across several islands.
Weather Alerts and Emergency Plan Activation
The Canary Islands Directorate General for Emergencies has officially declared:
- A pre-alert for rain in the western province (La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Tenerife) and Gran Canaria, effective from 3:00 AM on Sunday.
- A pre-alert for snow on the summits of La Palma, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria, starting from 12:00 noon.
This decision was made following the latest forecasts from AEMET and in accordance with the Specific Emergency Plan for the Canary Islands for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA). The regional government has urged residents and visitors to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
General Weather Outlook: Showers, Hail, and Snow
- Moderate Rainfall: Showers are expected throughout the day, with the potential for locally heavy downpours in the afternoon.
- Storms and Hail: Thunderstorms cannot be ruled out, particularly in the interior regions of the islands.
- Snowfall at High Altitudes: On the summits of La Palma, Tenerife, and possibly Gran Canaria, precipitation may fall as snow above 1,800 metres.
Forecast for the Province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The weather conditions for Sunday will be characterised by cloudy to overcast skies across the islands, with moderate rainfall expected throughout the day. The most intense showers will likely occur in inland areas during the afternoon and coastal areas at night.
- Chance of Storms & Hail: There is a low probability of thunderstorms, but hailstorms remain a possibility in some regions.
- Snowfall Levels: Snow is forecast for the highest peaks of La Palma and Tenerife, at altitudes between 2,200 and 2,400 metres.
Temperature Trends in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Minimal Change in Low Temperatures: Night-time temperatures will remain stable.
- Slight Drop in Maximum Temperatures: A more moderate decrease is expected in higher elevations.
- Temperature Ranges:
- Tenerife: High of 21°C
- El Hierro: Low of 11°C
Wind Conditions
- Winds will be light and variable, with coastal breezes prevailing throughout the day.
Forecast for the Province of Las Palmas
Gran Canaria
- Cloudy to overcast skies, with moderate rainfall during the first half of the day.
- Rain intensifies from midday, bringing the possibility of heavy showers, particularly in inland areas in the afternoon and along the coasts at night.
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura
- Early morning: Few clouds
- Mid-morning onwards: Increasing cloud cover leading to overcast conditions
- Rainfall expected in the afternoon, particularly in inland areas and on the western slopes, with a chance of locally moderate showers.
Temperature Trends in Las Palmas
- Stable or slightly decreasing minimum temperatures
- Expected range in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria:
- Maximum: 21°C
- Minimum: 15°C
Wind Conditions
- Winds will be light and variable, with a predominance of coastal breezes throughout the day.
Recommendations
- Residents and visitors should stay updated on weather warnings issued by AEMET and local authorities.
- Mountain travellers should exercise caution as snowfall at higher elevations may affect hiking routes and road conditions.
- Coastal visitors should be aware of strong breezes, which could impact sea conditions.
- Those attending outdoor events or engaging in travel should prepare for rain showers, potential storms, and cooler temperatures.
As the Canary Islands experience an influx of unsettled weather, the authorities remain vigilant, monitoring rainfall patterns and potential snowfall accumulations to ensure public safety and effective response planning.
