Canary Islands on alert with Therese: strong winds, heavy rain and canceled flights

Storm Therese arrived at Ilhas Canárias from March 18, 2026, mainly affecting Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera and Authorities activated the emergency plan on the island of Tenerife due to strong winds, heavy rain and rough seas. Medidas immediate measures included the closure of schools and daycare centers on several islands, as well as recommendations for remote work. The meteorological phenomenon brought waves of up to five meters on the coasts and gusts of wind that reached 90 km/h in elevated areas.

Canary authorities declared a state of emergency in Tenerife to coordinate responses to the storm. Escolas remained closed on Thursday on Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro, with the measure extended to all seven islands on Friday. The meteorological service Aemet issued warnings for the risk of flooding, landslides and intense sea disturbances. Especialistas indicated that the south of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, in addition to the west of La Palma, face the greatest dangers during the weekend.

Impacts on air and sea transport

Several flights were canceled at Tenerife airports, particularly routes towards La Palma and El Hierro. Alguns flights had to be redirected to other terminals. The forecast points to more cancellations as the storm intensifies. Balsas between the islands were stopped in ports for safety.

Airlines have adjusted operations to minimize disruption to passengers. Aeroportos recorded delays and redirections due to adverse conditions. Autoridades advised travelers to check flight status before heading to the terminals.

Prevention measures and weather alerts

Aemet has put yellow warnings for wind and coastal phenomena in effect on several islands since early Wednesday. Previsões indicate rainfall accumulations that can exceed 80 mm in 12 hours at specific points. At altitudes above 1,800 meters, there is a chance of snow in Tenerife and La Palma.

Residents and tourists have been advised to avoid coastal areas and stay in safe places. The meteorologist warned about the need for extreme caution in the period from Friday to Sunday. Authorities reinforced that the phenomenon could last until the end of the weekend.

Extreme weather conditions on the islands

Leia Tambem

Colby Minifie confirms Ashley Barrett’s powers in The Boys season five

Napoli x Milan in Serie A with confirmed lineups and where to watch live

New battery test puts Galaxy S26 Ultra ahead of iPhone 17 Pro Max in global ranking

Ventos strong forces caused disturbances in mountainous and coastal regions. Chuvas Torrential waters threaten to cause flooding in low-lying areas. Ondas highs impacted beaches and coastal areas, with records of rough seas in Tenerife since the 18th.

The storm brought a sharp drop in temperatures in some locations. At high points, the combination of wind and precipitation increased the risk of landslides. The western islands recorded the most intense effects of the system.

Recommendations from local authorities

Island governments asked the population to avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storm. Acesso to national parks, like that of Teide, was restricted. Estradas in the north of Tenerife were closed as a precaution.

Workers were able to opt for the remote regime in many sectors. The measures aim to reduce the risk of accidents related to bad weather. Autoridades maintained constant monitoring of weather conditions.

Long-term effects expected on the archipelago

The low pressure system is expected to influence the Canarian climate at least until Sunday. Previsões indicate persistence of winds and rain of varying intensity. Ilhas like La Palma and El Hierro continue to be more vulnerable to traffic interruptions.

Emergency teams remain on standby to act in cases of flooding or landslides. The archipelago is facing one of the most significant storms of the season. Condições should gradually improve after the weekend.