Following the devastating impact of the DANA (isolated high-altitude depression) storm on the south and eastern regions of Spain, which has already claimed at least 70 lives, the weather system is now moving towards Catalonia and more specifically, Barcelona. As the DANA progresses, forecasters predict its effects will also reach the Canary Islands in the form of rain over the coming days.
Weather sources indicate that light to moderate rains are expected in Tenerife, the western islands, and Gran Canaria, starting tonight and continuing until Saturday. In Tenerife, these showers will likely be more concentrated in interior areas. Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro, could see downpours of up to five litres per square metre per hour.
King Felipe VI of Spain, addressed the nation from Gando Air Base in Gran Canaria today, during his visit to observe the SIRIO 2024 military exercises, and expressed his condolences to the families affected by the DANA-induced disaster.
The King also confirmed that relief efforts are being deployed swiftly across affected regions, especially Valencia, Castilla-La Mancha, and Andalucía, to provide support to those impacted.
As the Canary Islands prepare for possible weather disturbances, authorities continue monitoring the situation, ensuring preparedness for any potential escalation in rainfall or flooding due to the tail of the DANA's reaching the islands.
The severe storm has left at least 70 people dead as it tore through the provinces of Valencia and Castilla-La Mancha, according to the Emergency Coordination Centre of the Generalitat Valenciana. The initial count of fatalities began following the storm’s impact, and authorities are now engaged in the painstaking process of recovering and identifying the victims.
Emergency services across affected regions are working around the clock, with multiple agencies deployed to aid in rescue efforts and provide assistance to affected communities. The Multiple Victims Procedure was activated late Tuesday evening to help coordinate these efforts, allowing for a swift response by pooling resources from various security and emergency forces.
The provisional death toll initially stood at 51 but has since risen to 70 as search and recovery operations continue. The identification process of the victims is now underway, as officials work to confirm identities and inform families.
This tragic event has mobilised support from neighbouring regions, including from the Canary Islands, with additional resources directed toward Valencia and Castilla-La Mancha to assist with ongoing rescue, recovery, and relief efforts.
