A noticeable change in weather conditions is set to affect the Canary Islands in the coming hours, as the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) warns of a more unsettled pattern this Wednesday, 29 April. While the archipelago will largely retain its mild spring climate, increasing cloud cover and the likelihood of light rain—particularly inland—mark a departure from the more stable conditions seen in recent days.
Cloud cover spreads with rain expected inland
According to AEMET, skies will remain predominantly cloudy across most of the islands throughout the day. The most significant development will be the appearance of light rainfall, mainly during the middle and latter parts of the day, with inland and mid-altitude areas most exposed.
This pattern will be especially evident on islands with higher terrain, such as Tenerife, Gran Canaria and La Palma, where the landscape favours the formation and retention of cloud. In contrast, the eastern islands—Lanzarote and Fuerteventura—are expected to experience more variable conditions, with a lower probability of rainfall and increasing clear spells towards the evening.
Temperatures ease slightly across parts of the archipelago
Temperatures will remain generally stable overall, although slight drops in maximum values are expected in some eastern and north-eastern areas. The presence of cloud cover may also contribute to a slightly cooler feel compared to previous days.
In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, temperatures are forecast to range between 18°C and 23°C, while Las Palmas de Gran Canaria will see highs of around 22°C. Cooler conditions are expected in areas such as Valverde, on El Hierro, where temperatures may reach only around 16°C.
Island-by-island outlook
- Tenerife: Overcast skies with light rain developing in the afternoon, particularly in mid-altitude zones.
- Gran Canaria: Similar conditions, with rainfall more likely inland and slightly cooler temperatures on the eastern slopes.
- Lanzarote and Fuerteventura: Mostly cloudy spells with limited rainfall risk; temperatures between 17°C and 22°C and light, variable winds.
- La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro: Persistent cloud cover inland, with occasional light rain and cooler conditions, especially at higher elevations.
Sea conditions deteriorate before improving
Coastal conditions will require some caution. Northerly winds of force 3 to 4 are expected, strengthening to force 5 offshore in exposed areas along the east, west and south-east coasts. Swell conditions will increase during the afternoon and evening, with waves from the north and north-west reaching between 1 and 2 metres.
However, the situation is expected to ease later, with calmer seas returning overnight, particularly along the southern coasts.
A temporary shift during a seasonal transition
Looking ahead, AEMET indicates that this brief period of cloudier and more variable weather is typical of the current seasonal transition. High-pressure systems are not yet strong enough to fully block the influx of moisture into the middle layers of the atmosphere, allowing for cloud development and occasional rainfall.
Practical advice for the day
For those planning outdoor activities, inland and forested areas are likely to be most affected during the afternoon, with denser cloud cover, reduced visibility and light rain. Coastal areas—particularly along the southern slopes—are expected to enjoy brighter conditions, as they remain more sheltered from incoming moisture.
Overall, the Canary Islands are entering a short-lived phase of variability, with cloud, light rain and slightly cooler temperatures briefly interrupting the otherwise mild and stable spring weather.
