Storm Therese Hits Canaries: Urgent Advice for British Tourists as 60mph Winds and Floods Lash Islands
If you're currently enjoying some winter sun in the Canaries, or have a flight booked in the next few days, you might want to brace yourselves. Storm Therese has swept across the Atlantic and is now giving the archipelago a proper battering, with 60mph winds and torrential downpours that have put the entire region on high alert. I was chatting to a mate 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 spot of drizzle and a stiff breeze – this is the kind of storm that sends sun loungers flying and parasols tumbling. The main areas to keep an eye on are Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and La Palma, all of which are at risk of seeing massive amounts of rain in a very short space of time. Flash flooding is the real concern, especially in those barrancos (the steep ravines carved into the landscape) which can become raging torrents in minutes.
What's Happening on the Ground?
From what we're hearing, it's a mixed picture. Some resorts are just getting 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 bloke from Manchester who's out in Puerto Rico posted online, saying the sea is absolutely bonkers – huge swells crashing right over the sea walls. The authorities have closed some coastal paths, and it's probably only a matter of time before we hear about flight disruptions.
For anyone due to fly out with Ryanair, Jet2, or TUI in the next 48 hours, do yourselves 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 pint if you can avoid it. The airports in Gran Canaria and Tenerife South are still operational for now, 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 see you through the next day or two:
- Stay indoors where possible. That sunbed isn't going anywhere. Use the time to explore the local bars and restaurants (most are well-built and perfectly 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 the 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 cuts 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 at rebooking, but the queues can be absolute chaos once the delays start.
How to Make the Best of This Storm (Sort Of)
I know, I know – you came for the sun, not a reminder of a British summer. But look on the bright side: this is the perfect excuse to do all those indoor things you usually skip. Hit the local markets, have 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 sharpish once Therese buggers off. In the meantime, stay safe, keep an eye on the local news, and remember – a bit of rain never hurt anyone. It's the flying deckchairs you need to watch out for.
We'll keep you posted as the storm moves through. If you're out there, drop us a line and let us know how you're getting on – but only once you're safe and sound indoors.