The Canary Islands endured an exceptional day of heat on Friday, 19 September, as temperatures soared to historic levels. The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) confirmed that the all-time September record was broken when San Bartolomé de Tirajana (Gran Canaria) registered 41ºC at 2:30 p.m.. Almost simultaneously, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria recorded 39.9ºC at 2:10 p.m., underscoring the intensity of the heatwave.
A Heatwave Intensified by Calima
The extreme heat was accompanied by intense calima, with suspended dust reducing visibility and aggravating the oppressive weather conditions. Although the peak values were recorded on Friday, Aemet reported that the episode will begin to gradually subside from Saturday onwards. However, the relief will be relative: temperatures will remain well above seasonal norms.
Forecasts for Saturday indicate highs of 34ºC in several areas, with expected peaks of 33ºC in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and 30ºC in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Night-time temperatures will also remain unusually high, with minimums of 25ºC and 24ºC, respectively—conditions that provide little respite after sunset.
Warnings and Preventive Measures
The Aemet warnings for high temperatures and dust in suspension will stay in effect across Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Tenerife. The agency does not rule out maximums of up to 36ºC in certain inland areas.
The exceptional heat prompted the Canary Islands’ Department of Education to authorise seven schools in Tenerife to close earlier than usual on Friday, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of pupils and staff.
Wind and Atmospheric Conditions
The wind is expected to blow predominantly from the north, with moderate to occasionally strong gusts affecting different parts of the archipelago. In other areas, breezes will be lighter, mainly from the east and northeast, which may prolong the presence of suspended dust.
A Sign of a Warmer September Trend
This episode adds to the growing evidence that September in the Canary Islands is becoming increasingly warm. With the new 41ºC record, the month of September now firmly reflects the broader trend of extreme temperatures in the archipelago, highlighting the vulnerability of the islands to climate change and reinforcing concerns about the impact of recurrent heatwaves on daily life, health, and the environment.
