Canary Islands on High Alert as Storm Theresa Brings Heavy Rain and Snow

Weather authorities have raised alert levels across the Canary Islands as Storm Theresa approaches. According to the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), the storm—a high-altitude isolated depression known as a DANA—is expected to reach its peak intensity this Thursday.

While the impact will vary depending on the local landscape of each island, the situation is particularly concerning for Tenerife. In addition to existing warnings for strong winds and rough seas, the island now faces alerts for heavy rain and snowfall at higher altitudes. Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma will be under an orange-level wind alert.

The storm will also affect the eastern islands. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura will see wind and coastal warnings come into effect by Thursday afternoon. Across the archipelago, temperatures are expected to drop, with frost likely on the peaks of Tenerife and snow levels forecast between 1,600 and 1,900 meters.

Forecasters expect persistent rain, particularly on the southern and western slopes, where showers could become heavy and stormy by the second half of the day. Strong southwesterly winds are expected to hit high-altitude areas and mountains, occasionally reaching the coast and the eastern islands.

Because the Canary Islands' unique terrain can intensify these weather events, officials are urging residents to monitor official updates closely, as conditions may change rapidly.