A change in the weather pattern is beginning to take shape across the Canary Islands, as the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) confirms a day marked by increasing cloud cover and the likelihood of light rainfall in several areas of the archipelago this Tuesday. While no significant weather warnings are in place, the forecast points to a more unsettled scenario compared to recent days, driven largely by the continued influence of the trade winds.
Cloud cover and light rain focused on northern slopes
According to AEMET, the most affected areas will be the northern slopes of the higher islands, where moist air carried by the trade winds will lead to predominantly cloudy skies and a growing probability of light, occasional rain, particularly towards the evening and overnight hours.
As the day progresses, cloud cover is expected to extend across other parts of the islands. On the western and southern slopes, intervals of cloud will gradually give way to more overcast conditions during the afternoon, with a chance of light rainfall developing, especially in inland areas.
In contrast, higher-altitude zones are likely to remain largely clear, creating a noticeable contrast between the cloudier lower levels and the sunnier peaks.
More stable conditions in the eastern islands
A slightly different pattern is expected in the eastern islands, including Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. Here, skies will begin the day under cloudy conditions, particularly during the morning hours, but are forecast to gradually clear as the day progresses, especially along the eastern coasts.
Temperatures remain stable with minor variations
Temperatures across the archipelago will remain broadly stable, with no major fluctuations expected. Minimum temperatures will see little to no change, while maximum values may experience slight increases in the north and minor decreases elsewhere.
Among the capital cities, the highest temperatures are forecast in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, reaching around 23°C. Cooler readings are expected in areas such as Santa Cruz de La Palma, where temperatures could drop to around 13°C, and in El Hierro, with lows of approximately 17°C.
Light to moderate northerly winds
Wind conditions will be dominated by northerly flows of light to moderate intensity. In mountainous areas, winds will be weaker and more variable, while along the southern coasts, gentle breezes will prevail, contributing to relatively comfortable conditions despite the increased cloud cover.
Sea conditions influenced by northerly swell
At sea, conditions will reflect the prevailing atmospheric pattern, with north to north-westerly winds reaching force 3 to 5, and occasionally up to force 6 in some areas. Light to moderate swells are expected, with occasional stronger surges. Wave heights are forecast to range between 1 and 2 metres, with swell arriving from the north and north-west.
Island-by-island outlook
- Tenerife: Cloudy skies in the north, with a higher likelihood of rain overnight. Temperatures up to 23°C in Santa Cruz.
- Gran Canaria: Cloud cover in the north, with possible rain developing inland and in southern areas during the afternoon. Highs around 20°C in Las Palmas.
- Lanzarote and Fuerteventura: Generally cloudy early in the day, with gradual clearing in the afternoon. Highs around 22°C.
- La Palma: Predominantly overcast, with a low probability of early morning rain in the north-east.
- La Gomera and El Hierro: Increasing cloud cover as the day progresses, with occasional light rain in northern areas.
Trade winds continue to shape the weather
This pattern is largely driven by the persistence of the trade winds, which continue to transport moisture towards the windward slopes of the islands. As a result, while rainfall is expected to remain generally light, it may become more frequent in exposed areas, particularly during the latter part of the day.
Overall, the forecast points to a transitional phase in the weather across the Canary Islands, with more variable conditions and a gradual increase in humidity and cloudiness marking the shift.
