The Canary Islands are bracing for the arrival of Storm Jana, which is expected to bring significant weather disturbances in the coming days. This will be the tenth major storm of the 2024/2025 season, with meteorologists warning of its potential impact, particularly as it coincides with the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival.
Weather Outlook for Friday: Cloudy Skies and Possible Showers
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has forecast a day of cloudy skies across the archipelago on Friday, with occasional showers expected, especially in the latter half of the day. The heaviest rainfall is anticipated in northern areas, where localised showers could develop.
- Temperatures:
- Minimum temperatures will remain stable in midland areas and coastal regions.
- Maximum temperatures will rise slightly, with a moderate increase in higher-altitude areas.
- Expected temperature range:
- El Hierro: 12°C (min)
- La Gomera: 24°C (max)
Wind and Sea Conditions: Stronger Gusts Expected
- Wind Patterns:
- Light westerly winds in the morning, increasing to moderate intensity by midday.
- In the extreme southern regions, occasional very strong gusts are possible in the afternoon.
- Over the central summits, winds will blow moderately from the northwest, shifting to a strong westerly wind with very strong gusts late in the day.
- Maritime Conditions:
- In the afternoon and evening, winds from the north or northwest will reach force 3 to 4.
- By early morning, winds will shift westward and strengthen to force 5 along the northern and southern coasts.
- Sea state: Moderate swell from the northwest, with wave heights between 1 and 2 metres.
Storm Jana’s Impact: What to Expect
Meteorologist Mario Picazo (eltiempo.es) has analysed the progression of Storm Jana, which could develop into a high-impact weather system over the coming days.
- The Canary Islands recently experienced a brief period of reduced rainfall, but that is expected to change by Saturday, when the southern tip of Jana’s associated front will pass over the region.
- Widespread rain is expected throughout Saturday, with no areas completely spared from precipitation.
- Despite the storm, temperatures will remain relatively stable, with pleasant values around 20°C in many regions.
- However, strong winds could intensify in certain parts of the archipelago, bringing potential disruptions.
Island-Specific Forecast for Friday
Tenerife
- Cloud cover increasing from partly cloudy to overcast by midday.
- Low chance of light and occasional rain in the north and west during the early morning.
- By afternoon, rainfall will intensify in the north, with possible showers.
- Temperatures:
- Minimum temperatures unchanged.
- Maximum temperatures rising slightly, with a moderate increase in high-altitude areas.
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 16°C – 23°C
La Gomera
- Increasing cloud cover by midday.
- Chance of occasional rain in the north and west in the afternoon, possibly as showers.
- Temperatures:
- Minimum temperatures stable.
- Maximum temperatures rising slightly, with a more noticeable increase in northern areas.
- San Sebastián de La Gomera: 15°C – 23°C
La Palma
- Cloudy intervals early in the day, becoming overcast in the morning.
- Rain expected in the afternoon, particularly in the west and north, where showers could occur.
- Temperatures:
- Generally unchanged, except for a slight to moderate increase on the eastern side.
- Santa Cruz de La Palma: 15°C – 23°C
El Hierro
- Cloudy skies in the afternoon.
- Rain mainly in the west and north, with possible showers in the late hours.
- Temperatures:
- Minimum temperatures stable.
- Slight increase in maximum temperatures.
- Valverde: 10°C – 16°C
Gran Canaria
- Cloudy intervals, with clearer skies in the afternoon.
- Low probability of occasional rain in the north and west early in the day, increasing in the late hours.
- Scattered rain is possible in inland eastern areas.
- Temperatures:
- Generally unchanged, with slight increases on the northern slopes.
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 15°C – 23°C
Lanzarote & Fuerteventura
- Cloudy intervals, with more clear spells in the afternoon.
- Low probability of rain in the late hours.
- Temperatures:
- Mostly unchanged or slightly rising.
- Arrecife: 14°C – 21°C
- Puerto del Rosario: 15°C – 22°C
Highlights of Weather Warnings
- Heavy rain and showers – particularly in the north of the islands.
- Strong winds – gusts may intensify in exposed coastal and mountain areas.
- Rough seas – waves between 1 and 2 metres, especially on northern and southern coasts.
- Temperature stability – no major changes, with pleasant conditions around 20°C in many regions.
Recommendations:
- Those attending the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival should prepare for changing conditions, with possible rain and gusty winds.
- Mariners and those near the coast should be cautious due to rough sea conditions.
- It is advisable to monitor updates from AEMET and adjust travel plans if necessary.
