Alert declared due to Storm Garoé hitting the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands Government has declared a state of prealert for wind and coastal phenomena as the Atlantic storm Garoé approaches the archipelago. This has been implemented by the Directorate General of Emergencies based on information provided by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and other sources.

It falls under the framework of the Canary Islands Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA).

The prealert for wind will take effect from midnight on Tuesday (21st January), affecting mid-altitude and high-altitude locations in Tenerife such as Vilaflor, the Macizo de Teno, and highland regions of Granadilla de Abona and Arico, as well as the Teide National Park. In addition, snow could fall on the peaks of the more mountainous islands at altitudes of 2,200 or 2,400 metres. 

It will also impact areas in the northwest, eastern slopes, and summits of La Palma.

Forecasts indicate strong westerly and south-westerly winds with average speeds of 40–60 km/h, reaching 60–90 km/h in Teide National Park. Gusts exceeding 70 km/h are likely in affected areas, with speeds potentially surpassing 90 km/h in Teide's higher altitudes.

In terms of coastal conditions, the pre-alert for dangerous sea and coastal conditions begins at 3:00am on Tuesday. This will impact all of the Canary Islands, with the northern and western coasts of La Palma, El Hierro, La Gomera, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, and the northern coasts of Tenerife and Gran Canaria expected to bear the brunt.

The condition of the sea is forecast to deteriorate, with combined waves reaching 3–5 metres. Winds are expected to blow from the southwest and west at Force 4–5, locally reaching Force 6, before shifting to a northerly direction and easing in the latter half of Wednesday, 22nd January. Swells from the northwest of 2.5–4.5 metres are also anticipated.

Safety Recommendations

The Government of the Canary Islands has issued precautionary guidelines for residents and visitors:

• Coastal Safety: Avoid piers, breakwaters, and areas close to the sea to prevent accidents caused by waves. Postpone planned water sports or nautical activities and avoid swimming in remote or unsupervised beaches.
• Wind Protection: Remove loose objects from balconies, windows, and rooftops, such as potted plants, that could be dislodged by strong gusts. Stay clear of construction sites, scaffolding, cranes, and advertising signs that may become hazardous.
• Travel Precautions: Postpone hiking or camping trips in affected areas and exercise caution on roads due to potential obstacles or debris.

The public are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow updates as the storm progresses. The government’s proactive measures aim to minimise risks and ensure public safety during the storm's impact.