The Canary Islands Government has declared a pre-alert for heavy rainfall ahead of the arrival of an Atlantic weather front expected to affect parts of the archipelago from Tuesday 13 January. The measure will come into force at 10:00 a.m. and applies specifically to the islands of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, where the most significant impacts are forecast.
The decision, announced by the Canary Islands Directorate-General for Emergencies, has been taken on the basis of updated forecasts from the AEMET, alongside other monitoring sources. It forms part of the Canary Islands’ Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Weather Conditions (PEFMA), which is activated in situations posing a potential risk to public safety.
Heavy rain and possible storms expected
According to AEMET, a cold Atlantic front is forecast to cross the archipelago on Tuesday, bringing widespread rainfall. The heaviest precipitation is expected in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, where rainfall will range from light to moderate in many areas, but could become locally heavy at times.
Forecasters warn that some downpours may reach or exceed 5 millimetres in just one hour, particularly on northern slopes and exposed areas. In addition, thunderstorms in the vicinity of both islands cannot be ruled out, increasing the risk of sudden and intense rainfall over short periods.
Meteorologist Samuel Biener has cautioned that this episode marks the return of heavy rain to the Canary Islands, following a relatively calm and stable spell.
Rain to persist into midweek
Rainfall is expected to continue on Wednesday, with the northern parts of the islands most likely to be affected, although showers may also occur in other areas. As the week progresses, the probability of rain is forecast to become more limited, mainly affecting the northern slopes of the higher islands, while southern areas are expected to see partly cloudy skies and more settled conditions.
Despite the unsettled weather, temperatures will remain mild for the time of year. Minimum temperatures are expected to range between 15 and 17 degrees Celsius, while daytime highs along the coast should reach 20 to 22 degrees.
Authorities issue safety advice
In light of the forecast, the Directorate-General for Emergencies has urged residents and the visitors to follow a series of self-protection measures to reduce risks associated with heavy rain and possible flooding.
The authorities recommend checking the condition of roofs, drains and pipes, particularly ahead of winter weather episodes. Residents living near ravines or flood-prone areas are advised to alert their local council if debris accumulation is observed.
People are urged to follow official instructions broadcast by the media and avoid camping in areas susceptible to flooding, such as ravine beds. Whenever possible, residents should remain at home, unless their property is located in a designated risk zone.
Drivers are strongly advised to avoid travel during periods of heavy rain. If driving is unavoidable, extreme caution should be exercised, speeds should be reduced and braking performance closely monitored. Should a vehicle begin to fill with water, occupants are advised to abandon it immediately. Main roads and motorways should be prioritised, while secondary roads and forest tracks should be avoided.
The authorities also stress that flooded areas should never be crossed, particularly if there is a current. Bridges should not be used if water is flowing over them. In homes, contact between water and toxic or flammable substances should be prevented, and residents should avoid entering garages or basements during flooding.
In the event of serious flooding, lifts should not be used, electricity supplies should be disconnected, and residents should move to higher ground or areas designated by the authorities. If access to the upper floors of a building becomes isolated by water, people are advised not to attempt to swim out, but to wait for emergency services.
After the emergency, residents should not return to affected areas until it is officially declared safe. When re-entering buildings, matches or spark-producing devices should not be used, and only bottled water should be consumed.
Emergency services remind the public to call 1-1-2 only in genuine emergencies, while general information can be obtained by calling 012.
