Storm Therese Brings Unexpected Snow, Travel Disruptions to Canary Islands
Tenerife, Canary Islands – A rare snowfall has blanketed parts of Tenerife, disrupting travel plans for tourists and residents alike as Storm Therese unleashes heavy rain, high winds, and flooding across the Canary Islands. The unexpected weather event, occurring just days before the Easter holiday, has prompted flight cancellations and school closures.
Images circulating from the islands show snow-covered landscapes, a stark contrast to the typically sunny beaches that draw visitors from across Europe. Icicles have formed in some areas, particularly at higher elevations like Teide National Park, where roads have been closed.
The Canary Islands were placed under orange alert Wednesday due to the severe weather conditions. Forecasts indicate the poor weather could persist for at least five more days, potentially impacting the Easter getaways of many travelers.
At least seven flights to the Canary Islands were cancelled or diverted on Thursday, following 36 cancellations the previous day. On Friday, conditions are expected to worsen, with orange rain alerts issued for Tenerife, El Hierro, La Palma and La Gomera, according to Canarian Weekly. Up to 11mm of rain is forecast within a 12-hour period, while Gran Canaria anticipates up to 80mm. Dangerous sea conditions are also predicted between Tenerife and Gran Canaria, with waves potentially reaching six meters and winds up to force eight.
The storm has brought wind gusts exceeding 74 miles per hour in some areas. Authorities are urging tourists and locals to avoid unnecessary travel, exercise caution near coastal and mountainous regions, and heed the advice of local officials. Schools across the islands have been closed until conditions improve.
The unusual weather comes amid growing concerns about environmental issues and tourism’s impact on the Canary Islands. Fodor’s Travel guide recently added the islands to its “no list,” citing anti-tourism protests, pollution, and beach degradation.
