Storm Therese Hits Canary Islands: Urgent Alert for Indian Tourists 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, here's some important news. Storm Therese has swept in from the Atlantic and is now battering the archipelago, with 60mph winds and torrential downpours putting the entire region on high alert. A friend of mine in Puerto de la Cruz called this morning and said the palm trees are bending like crazy and the promenades have turned into rivers.
The Spanish weather agency has issued serious warnings for several islands. This isn't just a bit of drizzle and a stiff breeze – this is the kind of storm that sends sun loungers flying and umbrellas tumbling. The main areas to watch are Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and La Palma, all at risk of receiving massive amounts of rain in a very short time. Flash flooding is the real concern, especially in those barrancos (the steep ravines cutting through the landscape) which can become raging torrents in minutes.
What's the Situation on the Ground?
From what we're hearing, conditions vary. Some resorts are just seeing persistent heavy rain, while others are getting the full force of the wind. The eastern parts of the islands are bearing the brunt. Holidaymakers in Maspalomas, Playa de las Américas, and Los Cristianos should be especially cautious. A tourist from Mumbai currently in Puerto Rico posted online, saying the sea is absolutely wild – huge waves 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 with Aer Lingus, Ryanair, or TUI in the next 48 hours, do yourself a favour and check your flight status before heading to the airport. Delays and cancellations are highly likely, and you don't want to be stuck in departures 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 further.
Your Survival Guide to Storm Therese
Look, I've covered these storms for years, and the golden rule is don't take any chances. The sun will be back soon enough, 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 photos, 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 islands 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 about rebooking, but queues can get crazy once delays start.
How to Make the Best of This Situation
I know, I know – you came for the sun, not a reminder of monsoon season back home. But look on the bright side: this is the perfect excuse to do all those indoor things you usually skip. Visit local markets, enjoy a long lazy lunch, or just catch up on your reading. The Canarians are resilient people, and they'll have things back to normal quickly once Therese moves on. In the meantime, stay safe, keep an eye on local news, and remember – it's the flying objects you need to watch out for, not just the rain.
We'll keep you updated as the storm progresses. 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.