Storm Therese wreaks havoc in Gran Canaria with thousands evacuated from their homes
Storm Therese brought a particularly difficult night to Gran Canaria, with heavy rainfall, rising water levels and widespread disruption affecting thousands across the island.
More than 3,000 people have either been evacuated, or isolated and unable to leave their areas, particularly near the Arguineguín ravine, where rapidly increasing water flow has forced emergency measures.
Mass evacuations in high-risk areas
One of the most critical situations has been in Agaete, where authorities ordered the precautionary evacuation of the neighbourhoods of Los Pérez and El Hornillo amid fears that a nearby reservoir was in danger of overflowing.
Those evacuated have been taken to the IES Pepe Dámaso secondary school, which has been set up as a temporary shelter.
Emergency services continue to urge residents to remain cautious, with officials warning that conditions could worsen if rainfall persists.
Flooding, landslides and road closures
Intense downpours have caused significant disruption across several municipalities, including San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Santa Lucía, Mogán and Telde.
The Arguineguín ravine has been one of the worst-hit areas, forcing the closure of the GC-505 road. Landslides have also impacted more than ten roads across the island, complicating access for residents and emergency services.
In mountainous areas such as La Culata in Tejeda, access remains difficult, with alternative routes put in place for local residents.
Reservoirs under pressure
The storm has delivered an estimated 14 million cubic metres of water to Gran Canaria’s reservoirs, significantly raising levels across the island.
The Las Niñas reservoir is now close to overflowing, which could further increase the flow in surrounding ravines, particularly in Arguineguín on the east coast of the island, raising concerns about additional flooding.
Damage to homes
The severe weather has also caused damage to properties, especially in coastal areas such as Pozo Izquierdo, where incidents were reported overnight.
Heavy rainfall and water accumulation have created hazardous conditions in multiple locations, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation closely.
Residents and visitors are advised to follow official guidance and avoid unnecessary travel while Storm Therese continues to affect the Canary Islands.
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