Storm Therese Hits Canary Islands: Essential Advice for Canadian Travellers as 60mph Winds and Flooding Strike
If you're currently enjoying some winter sun in the Canaries, or have a flight booked in the coming days, you'll want to pay attention. Storm Therese has swept across the Atlantic and is now giving the archipelago a real battering, with 60mph winds and torrential downpours that have put the entire region on high alert. I was chatting with a buddy in Puerto de la Cruz this morning, and he said the palm trees are bending like they're made of rubber and the promenades have turned into rivers.
The Spanish weather agency has issued serious warnings for a large part of the islands. We're not just talking about a bit of drizzle and a stiff breeze – this is the kind of storm that flips your lounge chair and sends umbrellas flying. The main areas to keep an eye on are Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and La Palma, all of which are at risk of receiving massive amounts of rain in a very short period. Flash flooding is the real concern, especially in those barrancos (the steep ravines carved through the landscape) which can turn into raging torrents in minutes.
What's the Situation on the Ground?
From what we're hearing, it's a mixed picture. Some resorts are just dealing with persistent heavy rain, while others are copping the full force of the wind. The eastern parts of the islands are bearing the brunt of it. Holidaymakers in Maspalomas, Playa de las Américas, and Los Cristianos should be particularly cautious. A guy from Toronto who's out in Puerto Rico posted online, and he said the sea is absolutely wild – huge swells crashing right over the sea walls. Authorities have closed some coastal walkways, and it's only a matter of time before we hear about flight disruptions.
For anyone scheduled to fly out with Air Canada, WestJet, or Air Transat over the next 48 hours, do yourself a favour and check your flight status before you even think about heading to the airport. Delays and cancellations are highly likely, and you don't want to be stuck in departures nursing an overpriced coffee if you can avoid it. The airports in Gran Canaria and Tenerife South are still operational, but that could change if the wind picks up any more.
Your Survival Guide to Storm Therese
Look, I've been covering these storms for years, and the golden rule is don't be a hero. The sun will be back, but for now, here's a handy checklist to get you through the next day or two:
- Stay indoors where possible. That beach chair isn't going anywhere. Use the time to explore local bars and restaurants (most are well-built and safe).
- Keep away from the coast. Those dramatic waves might look great for Instagram, but they're dangerous. One rogue wave can sweep you off the rocks.
- Heed the warnings. If locals say "no paseo" or block off a road, they mean it. They know their island better than any guidebook.
- Charge your phone and power banks. Power outages can happen, and you'll want to stay connected.
- Contact your airline or tour operator. If you're due to travel, get ahead of any changes. Most are pretty good about rebooking, but the queues can get insane once delays start.
How to Make the Best of This Storm
I know, I know – you came for the sun, not a reminder of Canadian spring. But look on the bright side: this is the perfect excuse to do all those indoor things you usually skip. Hit the local markets, enjoy a long lazy lunch, or just catch up on your reading. The Canarians are a resilient bunch, and they'll have things back to normal soon enough once Therese moves on. In the meantime, stay safe, keep an eye on local news, and remember – a bit of rain never hurt anyone. It's the flying deck chairs you need to watch out for.
We'll keep you posted as the storm progresses. If you're out there, drop us a line and let us know how you're making out – but only once you're safe and sound indoors.