Canary Islands Under Weather Warnings as Intense Heatwave Hits Archipelago

The Canary Islands are currently experiencing an intense heatwave that is pushing the region’s climate to its limits. According to data from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), the islands remain under an official weather warning. Experts note that this event reflects a growing trend of more frequent and severe heatwaves across the Mediterranean and Atlantic, driven by climate change.

Temperatures have been notably high across the archipelago. Gran Canaria saw the most extreme heat, with La Aldea de San Nicolás reaching 37.4°C, followed by Teror at 37°C and Tejeda at 36.7°C. Elsewhere, Tenerife’s northern airport hit 36.9°C, and Agulo in La Gomera recorded 36.7°C. Because these temperatures are well above the seasonal average, health authorities are urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor physical activity during the hottest parts of the day.

However, the islands' varied landscape has provided some relief. Higher altitudes and specific areas in Tenerife have remained cooler; Las Cañadas del Teide recorded the lowest temperature at 16.5°C, while La Victoria de Acentejo, the La Orotava Valley, and Arico also stayed relatively mild. On La Palma, San Andrés y Sauces also managed to keep temperatures below 20°C.

This sharp contrast in temperatures highlights the unique nature of the islands' volcanic terrain. Emergency services remain on high alert, as the combination of extreme heat and low humidity significantly increases the risk of forest fires, a persistent threat to the islands during the summer.