Tenerife Seeks State Aid as Storm Therese Damage Hits €17.7 Million
The Tenerife Island Council is seeking 8.85 million euros in state funding to cover half of the 17.7 million euro repair bill caused by extensive storm damage to the island's road network and infrastructure.
The economic damage caused by Storm Therese in Tenerife has reached 17.7 million euros, highlighting the island’s vulnerability to severe weather. The Tenerife Island Council (Cabildo) has requested that the national government cover half of these costs to fund essential structural repairs.
The road network suffered the most significant damage, totaling 12.5 million euros. Repairs are particularly complex in areas like the TF-134 in the Anaga massif, where 3.1 million euros will be spent to stabilize slopes and improve drainage. Additionally, 1.5 million euros is earmarked for the TF-165 in Tacoronte to rebuild its water drainage system, marking the most expensive single project.
Beyond the roads, the storm damaged natural areas and emergency infrastructure. Repairs to forest tracks, hiking trails, and communication equipment—including fire stations at Pico del Inglés and Icod de los Vinos—will cost an additional 5.1 million euros.
Despite these plans, officials remain cautious. Dámaso Arteaga, the Minister of Roads, noted that the hillsides remain unstable, which complicates construction planning. While the Cabildo is preparing projects for 29 locations across 16 roads, no start date has been set. The timeline for these repairs depends on receiving state funding and ensuring the terrain is safe for work to begin.