Government raises the alert for floods and landslides in five of the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands Government has raised the risk level from pre-alert to alert for flooding and landslides across Tenerife, the western islands, and Gran Canaria, as Storm Therese continues to cause problems in the archipelago.
The decision, announced today (Saturday) by the Directorate General for Emergencies, follows persistent severe weather linked to the storm. Authorities warn that the south and west-facing areas of the islands remain under significant threat, particularly due to the risk of ravines overflowing.
Flooding Risk Increases in Mountainous Islands
Weather conditions have worsened notably on the more mountainous islands of Tenerife, La Palma, and Gran Canaria. Officials are warning of potential urban surface flooding and the sudden swelling of water channels, which could reach lower-lying areas.
Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and Gran Canaria are expected to see ongoing rainfall, at times heavy, especially in mid-altitude areas. Emergency services are closely monitoring the situation as conditions remain unstable.
Preventative evacuations have not been ruled out in the coming hours. An official statement warned that “small communities and scattered settlements could become isolated” if conditions deteriorate further.
Meanwhile, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote remain on pre-alert, with less frequent rainfall but continued close monitoring by emergency response teams.
Landslides and Road Closures Reported
Sustained rainfall in higher areas has saturated the soil, leading to landslides that are already affecting the islands road. Falling rocks, branches and even trees have been reported in mid-altitude zones, forcing road closures across several islands.
Some neighbourhoods and rural hamlets have already been temporarily cut off due to blocked routes.
Emergency Plan Activated
In response to the escalating situation, authorities have upgraded the PLATECA emergency plan (Canary Islands Civil Protection Territorial Emergency Plan). The move to alert level allows for closer monitoring of damage to infrastructure and homes.
Regional officials are tracking incidents in real time as unstable ground conditions continue to pose a risk.
Multiple Weather Warnings Remain in Place
The Canary Islands have been under a range of weather warnings since Wednesday. Alerts remain active for strong winds, dangerous coastal conditions and even snowfall on higher ground in Tenerife and La Palma.
Storm Therese continues to impact the islands with force, and authorities are urging residents and visitors to avoid all non-essential travel, particularly in elevated areas and exposed slopes.
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