The Canary Islands are bracing for the impact of Storm Dorothea, following today’s electrical storms, which is expected to bring strong winds, rising temperatures, and a calima (Saharan dust), from tomorrow, Sunday.
Low humidity levels have prompted regional authorities to issue a combination of alerts and pre-alerts across the archipelago due to the increased risk of forest fires.
Weather Alerts and Conditions
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued an orange alert for strong winds for includes Tenerife and the western islands (La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Palma).
Meanwhile, a yellow alert has been declared for Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and La Graciosa. Gusts are expected to reach between 80 and 120 km/h, with hurricane-force winds possible in some areas. More sheltered regions, such as the southeastern coasts of El Hierro, La Palma, and La Gomera, may experience less intense gusts.
In addition to the wind warnings, a yellow alert for rough seas has been issued for La Gomera, El Hierro, and the western coast of La Palma. These warnings will come into effect from midnight on Sunday.
The calima, although lighter and at higher altitudes, has reappeared after a brief respite in recent days. This Saharan dust, combined with dry continental air brought by the storm, is expected to lower humidity levels to below 30% at elevations above 400–600 metres.
Forest Fire Alerts
The Government of the Canary Islands has declared a forest fire alert for Gran Canaria, effective from 7:00am on Sunday, while placing Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro under pre-alert status. The risk is compounded by prolonged drought conditions and a persistent hydrological deficit.
The presence of southeast winds, which are predicted to be strong to hurricane-force in some areas, further exacerbates the danger.
The combination of dry air, intense winds, and the calima underscores the severity of the situation. The public is advised to stay informed through official updates and to adhere to safety recommendations issued by local authorities.
