Tenerife Reopens Natural Spaces Following Storm Therese as Landslide Risks Persist
Tenerife has begun a cautious reopening of its natural spaces following Storm Therese, though authorities maintain landslide warnings and keep high-risk areas closed due to saturated terrain.
Following the end of storm Therese, Tenerife is beginning to reopen its natural spaces. The Tenerife Island Council has decided to lift the Island Emergency Plan (PEIN), allowing for a gradual return to public access just in time for the Easter holidays. However, officials are balancing this reopening with a cautious approach due to the ongoing risks.
Council President Rosa Dávila emphasized that the recent heavy rainfall has left the terrain fragile. While many trails and forest tracks reopened this Thursday at 12:00 p.m., certain high-risk areas remain closed. Blanca Pérez, the Minister of Natural Environment, noted that technical teams are still inspecting the infrastructure, and further openings will depend on these ongoing safety assessments.
Despite the improving weather, the Canary Islands Government has issued a landslide warning for the western islands and Gran Canaria. The ground remains saturated after the storm, which caused over 450 incidents—including rockfalls and road damage—reported to the 112 emergency service. While the immediate threat of flooding has passed, experts warn that as the ground dries, the risk of landslides increases. Consequently, a rain pre-alert remains in effect for Tenerife, La Palma, and El Hierro.
With more people expected to travel during the holidays, authorities are urging the public to be extremely careful on secondary and mid-altitude roads. Citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to report any signs of landslides or hazards to the 112 emergency service immediately, prioritizing safety over recreational plans.