The Canary Islands are bracing for another bout of severe weather as Storm Olivier sweeps across the archipelago, bringing intense rain, storms, and powerful winds. Following closely on the heels of Storm Nuria, Olivier is expected to reach peak intensity today, prompting weather alerts across all islands.
Aemet Issues Orange and Yellow Warnings
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued an orange warning — indicating significant risk — for heavy rainfall:
- From 3:00 p.m. on La Palma
- From 6:00 p.m. on Tenerife, La Gomera, and El Hierro
In addition, yellow alerts (moderate risk) have been declared for strong winds and thunderstorms across the four westernmost islands. Occasional rainfall is also expected early in the day on Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura.
From midday, winds will shift to come from the southwest, with very strong gusts likely at higher altitudes and exposed slopes.
Forecast for Thursday: Rain, Storms, and Possible Snow
Weather instability is forecast to continue into Thursday, with “heavy or very heavy” rainfall and thunderstorms, particularly in the western half of the islands during the morning. From 8:00 a.m., the orange warning will be downgraded to yellow as conditions gradually improve.
However, between this afternoon and early Thursday morning, Storm Olivier is expected to hit hardest, with the potential for hail and even snowfall in high-altitude areas such as Teide National Park (above 2,300 metres).
Rainfall Intensity and Wind Speeds
The Cabildos (island councils) of the western islands have activated their emergency plans. In Tenerife, the council issued a high alert late Wednesday night based on forecasts of:
- 30 litres per square metre in one hour
- 80 litres per square metre over 12 hours
- Wind gusts reaching or exceeding 70 km/h
As a precaution, the recreational areas and campsites managed by the Cabildo are closed. Additionally, hiking trails and forest tracks affected by the 2023 wildfires are off-limits, including Teide peak trails and canyoning routes across the island.
Public Safety Measures
The Government of the Canary Islands is advising the population to avoid road travel today and tomorrow unless absolutely necessary. If driving cannot be postponed, motorists are urged to:
- Slow down
- Check brakes
- Remain alert for debris or flooding
In areas where strong winds are forecast, residents are advised to:
- Stay away from old buildings, balconies, and walls
- Avoid walking near construction sites or dilapidated structures
- Remove flowerpots and unsecured objects from balconies and rooftops
For general information, the public should call 012, while 112 remains reserved for emergencies only.
Rainfall Data and Initial Impact
By 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, El Hierro had registered the highest rainfall:
- 22 litres/m² in Valverde
- 16 litres/m² at the airport
- 12 litres/m² in El Pinar
It also rained — though more moderately — in western La Palma, throughout La Gomera, and in northern and southern areas of Tenerife, including Isla Baja.
Storm Olivier Follows Storm Nuria
Storm Olivier arrives just five days after Storm Nuria, which delivered gusts of 124 km/h in Teide National Park, 119 km/h in Vallehermoso (La Gomera), and 114 km/h in San Andrés (El Hierro) and Villa de Mazo (La Palma). Rainfall from Nuria was also significant, with:
- 88 litres/m² in Cruz de Tea (Granadilla de Abona)
- 60 litres/m² in Vilaflor de Chasna
Storm Olivier is expected to unleash its greatest force between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning, with the potential for intense rainfall, hail, and even snow in high-altitude zones. Residents across the archipelago are urged to follow official guidance, monitor weather updates, and take all necessary precautions to ensure personal safety.
