The Canary Islands are set to face dangerous weather conditions this week, with the Spanish national weather agency, AEMET, issuing a yellow weather warning for strong winds, heavy rains, and towering waves.
According to forecasts, waves could reach up to five meters, posing risks to coastal areas. The rough seas and heavy rainfall are expected to impact multiple islands, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, and El Hierro, late Tuesday evening into Wednesday.
The most significant wave activity is expected to begin at midnight and continue until midday on Wednesday, February 19. The north and west of Tenerife, along with the northern regions of Gran Canaria, will be particularly affected. Meanwhile, all of Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, and El Hierro will experience similar hazardous conditions.
Before the waves take full effect, torrential rain is expected to hit La Palma. AEMET has warned that rainfall could reach 15mm per hour between 9:00 pm and 6:00 am, with the northern and eastern parts of the island being most at risk, told Daily Express.
In addition to the heavy rainfall, strong winds of up to 70 km/h could batter La Palma and El Hierro between 9:00 pm on Tuesday and 7:00 am on Wednesday. The western Canary Islands, including Tenerife, will also face significant rainfall, while Lanzarote and Fuerteventura may see scattered showers.
Despite the severe conditions forecasted for the Canary Islands, only the northwest coast of mainland Spain has received an official yellow weather warning. The adverse weather is linked to a storm system that will hit the Iberian Peninsula on Tuesday evening, bringing additional disruptions.
The Canary Islands, known for their year-round warm weather and as a favorite holiday destination for millions of British tourists, are bracing for the impact of this sudden shift in conditions. Authorities have advised residents and visitors to exercise caution, particularly in coastal areas, and to stay updated with official weather alerts.
As the storm approaches, travelers and locals alike are urged to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety, particularly as powerful waves and strong winds pose potential hazards across the region.
