The latest weather forecasts indicate that a DANA (isolated high-altitude depression) will bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even snow to the Canary Islands next week, coinciding with the Carnival celebrations in both Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
According to Meteored, the first half of this week has been dominated by the trade winds, bringing a relatively stable atmosphere with occasional strong gusts in exposed areas.
However, from today (Thursday) onwards, a cooler air mass will arrive, accompanied by the approaching DANA, which will lead to increased instability.
Meteorologists have been tracking this system for several days, with projections consistently indicating a period of showers, thunderstorms, and even snowfall in some high areas. The most adverse day is expected to be Sunday, when weather conditions could significantly impact outdoor Carnival events.
From Thursday to Saturday, occasional showers are expected, particularly on the more mountainous islands, where increased humidity and instability in the trade winds could lead to locally intense rainfall.
By Sunday, the situation is forecast to worsen as the DANA moves south towards the Madeira region, intensifying unstable conditions across the Canary Islands. Rainfall will spread across all islands during the latter half of the day, with locally heavy downpours and occasional thunderstorms.
Notably, the forecast suggests snowfall on Mount Teide and the highest areas of La Palma, a rare but not unprecedented event in the archipelago. This unstable weather pattern is expected to persist into next week, with irregular and locally intense showers continuing at least until Wednesday (5th March).
Possible Impact on Carnival Events
Meteored highlights that several key Carnival parades, dances, and events are scheduled in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria during this period. The latest weather models suggest that from Monday (3rd) to Wednesday (5th), rain showers will continue in an irregular pattern, with heavier rainfall expected in Tenerife, La Palma, and Gran Canaria.
Over 50 Litres Per Square Metre Possible
As the DANA moves through the archipelago, total rainfall accumulations could exceed 50 litres per square metre (l/m²) in some areas, particularly in Tenerife, La Palma, and Gran Canaria. While these figures are based on global forecasting models, experts caution that actual precipitation totals could be even higher in some locations, given the islands' complex terrain.
By early next week, snowfall is expected to accumulate on the highest elevations of Teide and parts of La Palma, while shifting wind patterns will result in a period of intense but unpredictable showers.
Authorities and event organisers are monitoring the situation closely, as adverse weather could impact the Carnival festivities, one of the most significant cultural events in the Canary Islands. Residents and visitors are advised to stay informed and prepare for potential disruptions caused by rain and strong winds.
