Weather Alert Issued for Western Canaries
The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has activated a yellow-level weather alert for the entire populations of La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro for Friday, October 17th. This advisory warns citizens of locally intense rainfall expected from 00:00 until 17:00, which could exceed 15 liters per square meter in one hour in some areas, accumulating up to 60 liters over a 12-hour period.
An Unstable Atlantic Front Arrives
This rainy episode is driven by an Atlantic front that will impact the western part of the archipelago. The collision of a cold air mass with a warm, humid one has generated an unstable weather system, which will bring widespread showers over the weekend and occasional thunderstorms on Friday morning. Meteorological models indicate the rains will progressively spread across all islands from Thursday, with the western islands being the most affected.
What to Expect Across the Islands
La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro are under the initial alert, and residents should stay informed about potential class suspensions or traffic disruptions due to the downpours. The front will then move through the archipelago, reaching Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura, where weaker or more intermittent rainfall is forecast. In northern parts of Tenerife, rain could arrive by Saturday afternoon.
The system will also bring abundant cloud cover, showers of varying intensity, and southwesterly winds, particularly in the more mountainous islands. Temperatures will see little change, although a slight drop in minimums is expected in the eastern islands. Forecasts suggest highs of 31°C and lows of 28°C in La Gomera, 29°C to 25°C in La Palma, and 31°C to 26°C in El Hierro.
Official Safety Recommendations
In such situations, it’s crucial to know how to act. Police, Civil Protection, and emergency services (112) urge everyone to remain calm and exercise caution during heavy rain. Please follow these official recommendations:
– Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must drive, reduce your speed, increase your following distance, and never attempt to cross flooded roads or riverbeds.
– Check drains, gutters, and rooftops to prevent water buildup, and secure any objects that could be blown away or fall.
– Do not take shelter in low-lying areas, garages, or ravines, where the risk of flooding or landslides is higher.
– Suspend outdoor activities and avoid hiking or camping in at-risk areas, especially mid-altitude zones and hillsides.
– Follow official information from AEMET, Civil Protection, or 112, and avoid spreading unconfirmed rumors or data.
The Start of Autumn Weather
This yellow alert signifies a moderate risk, but it should not be underestimated, as intense rainfall can cause significant issues in a very short time. Meteorologists indicate this episode will mark the beginning of autumn weather in the Canaries, bringing a cooler, more humid atmosphere that may persist for several days. AEMET will continue to update warnings as the front progresses and does not rule out activating new alerts for rain or storms.
