Schools set to reopen on Monday as Storm Therese eases
The Canary Islands’ Department of Education has confirmed that schools and colleges are to reopen and in-person classes to resume across the archipelago on Monday, provided forecasts for Storm Therese continue to improve as predicted.
Officials announced today, Saturday, that the decision is based on the anticipated easing of severe weather conditions, which are expected to subside by tomorrow evening (Sunday). The recent disruption was caused by a combination of adverse weather factors affecting several islands at the same time.
Remote Learning Ensured Continuity
During the suspension of face-to-face teaching, schools continued operating through online learning. According to the Department, digital systems functioned smoothly, allowing students across all islands to maintain their education without major disruption.
The shift to remote learning was introduced progressively as conditions worsened. On Thursday, in-person classes were first suspended in La Palma, La Gomera, Tenerife, El Hierro and La Graciosa, as well as for afternoon and evening sessions in Gran Canaria. By Friday, the measure had been extended to all islands.
Education officials highlighted that, despite weather alerts and advice to avoid travel, digital resources enabled the education system to continue operating effectively.
Damage Assessments to Follow Reopening
A full assessment of any damage to school infrastructure will take place from Monday, once centres reopen and inspections can be carried out.
So far, reported incidents have been relatively minor. These include strong winds displacing air conditioning units at the Professional Music Conservatory in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, a fallen tree blocking access to a primary school in Vega de San Mateo, and emergency work to secure roofing at a secondary school in Los Realejos, Tenerife.
There have also been reports of rainwater leaks at schools in Valsequillo (Gran Canaria) and El Pinar on El Hierro.
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