The Canary Islands are set to experience a transitional weather pattern this Thursday, 26 March, characterised by persistent strong winds and a gradual improvement in cloud cover, particularly across the southern areas of the higher islands. While more stable conditions are beginning to emerge, the influence of robust trade winds continues to define the overall outlook, according to the AEMET.
Strong Trade Winds Take Centre Stage
The most striking feature of the day will be the intensity and persistence of the wind. Northerly and north-easterly trade winds will blow at moderate levels overall, but strong intervals and very strong gusts are expected in exposed areas.
These gusts are likely to be particularly intense:
- In the north-west and south-east extremes of the mountainous islands
- Across inland areas of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura
The impact will also extend to coastal conditions. Sea states are expected to deteriorate, with:
- Winds reaching force 4 to 5, occasionally rising to force 6 in inter-island channels
- A northerly swell generating waves of 1 to 2 metres
As a result, caution is strongly advised along the coast and at sea, especially in areas exposed to the wind.
Gradual Clearing, but Northern Areas Remain Unsettled
Although cloud cover will gradually thin out throughout the day, particularly on southern slopes, the familiar “donkey’s belly” effect will persist in the north. This means:
- Cloudier skies will dominate northern regions
- Light, occasional rainfall is still expected, especially at mid-altitudes
Island-by-Island Forecast
Tenerife and Gran Canaria: Marked Contrasts
In Tenerife, the day will begin with cloudy skies in the north and north-east, where light rain remains possible. Elsewhere, conditions will be significantly clearer, although cloud build-up may occur in southern areas later in the day.
- Light frosts are possible on Mount Teide
- In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, temperatures will reach around 22°C
In Gran Canaria, slightly lower daytime temperatures are expected in the north.
- Rain is most likely in the northern midlands
- Strong gusts will affect the eastern and western slopes
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria will see highs of approximately 21°C
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura: Wind as the Main Concern
Across Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, skies will start off mostly cloudy, with a slight chance of light rain.
As the day progresses:
- Conditions will clear, especially in the south and east
- Strong inland winds, particularly in areas like Jandía, may create uncomfortable conditions
Western Islands: Similar Pattern with Local Variations
In La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro, the pattern remains consistent:
- Cloudier conditions in the north and east, with occasional light rain
- Clearer skies elsewhere
On La Palma, temperatures may rise slightly in higher areas, while on El Hierro, strong winds will be especially noticeable in El Pinar and southern and western zones.
Temperatures Hold Steady, but Wind Chill Increases
Temperatures across the archipelago will remain largely unchanged, with:
- Minimums between 17°C and 18°C in coastal capitals
- Pleasant daytime values overall
However, the wind chill factor will make it feel noticeably cooler, particularly in exposed locations.
Outlook: A Typical March Transition
This weather pattern reflects a seasonal transition typical of March, when strengthening trade winds precede more stable spring conditions. Current forecasts suggest that this combination of wind and partial clearing will persist through the end of the week.
For those planning outdoor activities, the key recommendation is clear: prepare for strong winds, take extra care in high-altitude areas, and remain cautious along the coast.
