After weeks of unseasonably high temperatures, the Canary Islands are set to experience a shift in weather this week with rain forecasted across the archipelago brought by the tail of Hurricane Kirk which is heading to mainland Spain. Although autumn has yet to make a noticeable appearance, with temperatures reaching 34°C in some areas, especially in Gran Canaria where yellow alerts have been issued for heat, strong winds, and rough seas, cooler conditions are on the way.
According to the European weather model (ECMWF), temperatures are expected to drop, particularly in the higher altitudes of the mountainous islands, with the possibility of rain, albeit light and unevenly distributed. Wind will remain a dominant feature in the coming days.
Here’s the detailed weather forecast for the week ahead, provided by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET):
Monday, October 7th:
AEMET warns of "very strong" westerly winds in the high peaks of Tenerife during the early hours. The day will be marked by high clouds and occasional low clouds along the coasts, mainly during the early morning and evening. Temperatures are set to drop slightly, with moderate decreases expected in inland areas.
Winds will be light and variable, predominantly from the northwest, with breezes along the coasts. In the mountains, particularly in Tenerife, strong westerly winds could occasionally reach gusts over 90 km/h.
Tuesday, October 8th:
Partly cloudy with low and high cloud cover. There is a low chance of light, sporadic rainfall in the northern slopes of the mountainous islands during the morning, and in the southern interiors of the central islands during the afternoon.
Minimum temperatures will remain steady, with slight increases expected in La Palma. Maximum temperatures will see little to no change, with possible slight decreases inland. Winds will remain light from the north, with coastal breezes.
Wednesday, October 9th:
Cloudy intervals are expected in the northern parts of the islands, with clearer skies in the middle of the day. The rest of the islands will remain mostly clear. Maximum temperatures will stay consistent, while minimums will see a slight dip. Northeasterly winds will increase from light to moderate by the evening.
Thursday, October 10th:
Though uncertainty surrounds the long-term forecast, Thursday is expected to bring lighter winds, partly cloudy skies, and a rise in temperatures once again across the Canary Islands.
While rainfall will be minimal, the brief respite from the heat and the return of cooler conditions will provide a welcome change for residents across the islands.
