The Government has issued an increased pre-alert for severe storms across all of the Canary Islands effective from 4:00pm today, Sunday 22nd December.
The announcement was made by the Directorate General of Emergencies in response to updated forecasts from the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and other sources.
The decision is in line with the Canary Islands’ Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA), a protocol designed to manage risks associated with severe weather events.
Forecasts predict isolated but intense storms, with some thunder and lightning, heavy localised rainfall, strong gusts of wind, and occasional hail.
There is also a possibility of isolated storms reaching even greater intensity in specific areas, although these occurrences are expected to be sporadic.
The public are urged to take precautions as outlined by the Directorate General of Emergencies and to avoid unnecessary travel during storms. These include measures to ensure personal safety and to minimise damage to property during adverse weather conditions.
The announcement follows significant weather disturbances in recent days, with heavy rain and strong winds already affecting parts of the islands. Photographs of damaged roads in areas such as Teide have highlighted the severe impact of the ongoing weather system, known locally as a DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos).