Storm Therese Las Canarias: Urgent Advisory for Singaporean Travellers as 60mph Winds and Flash Floods Hit
If you're currently enjoying some winter sun in the Canaries, or have a flight booked in the next few days, you'll want to pay attention. 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 with a friend in Puerto de la Cruz this morning, and he said the palm trees are bending like rubber and the promenades have turned into rivers.
The Spanish weather agency has issued serious warnings for several islands. We're not just talking about a bit of drizzle and a stiff breeze – this is the kind of storm that sends 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 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 bag. 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 especially careful. A traveller from Singapore currently in Puerto Rico posted online, saying 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 due to fly out with Singapore Airlines or its partner airlines in the next 48 hours, do yourself a favour and check your flight status before you even think about heading to Changi Airport. Delays and cancellations are highly likely, and you don't want to be stuck at the airport 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 take unnecessary risks. 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 day can wait. 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 impressive for social media, 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 get crazy 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 repeat of tropical weather back home. 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 soon enough once Therese moves on. 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 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.