Satellite Captures Teide’s Winter Transformation
One of the European Space Agency’s satellites captured several spectacular images on Monday 15 December of the intense snowfall that has left a thick white blanket across Teide National Park. The Sentinel-2 satellite, which provides imagery for studying vegetation, soil, water, inland waterways, and coastal areas, took the photos. Sentinel-2 can also supply information for emergency services.
A Rare Southern Snow Cover
In one shot focused on Mount Teide, it is clear to see how the snow has fallen across the entire protected area this time, especially in the south. This is notable as the heaviest snowfalls typically discharge over the northern slopes. The images were posted on the social network X (formerly Twitter) by several users, including Isaki64. “Thanks to Storm Emilia, this is how spectacular the central zone of Tenerife, Las Cañadas del Teide, looks,” reads the profile, which adds that the image was taken at midday on Monday.
The Science Behind the Blue Hues
Isaki64 also points out that pale blue lines are visible on the northern slopes. The user explains the reason for this colouration: “It’s not that the snow in that area is blue. In the shaded areas, where direct solar radiation (with its full spectrum) does not reach, only the light scattered by the atmosphere arrives, which is bluer.”
Major Operation for Park Access
In anticipation of traffic jams when access to Teide is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday 16 December—due to visitors eager to enjoy the snow—the Tenerife Island Council (Cabildo) has launched a significant operation. The island corporation plans to open the access roads to Teide National Park exclusively to cars from midday on Tuesday 16 December, once the roads have been cleared and properly signposted by the council’s road service.
Designated Routes and Closures
Access will be via two routes: the TF-21 from the southern access up to the Cable Car, in both directions, and then turning back. On the TF-21, the section between Aguamansa and El Portillo will be open, with exit via the TF-24 through Izaña. Access towards Teide, both via the La Esperanza road (TF-24) and from Arafo, will remain closed. The roads were kept closed on Monday 15 December until it could be guaranteed they were in a safe condition for traffic.
Trails and Summit Access
Furthermore, only those footpaths that are passable and safe will be opened, while those that may present risks due to weather conditions, such as flowing water, will remain closed. In collaboration with properly equipped mountaineers, access to the National Park and the ascent to the Peak of Teide will be permitted via the Tenerife On app.
Historic Snowfall Eases Drought
This is the heaviest snowfall recorded at Spain’s highest peak since 2016. It is all thanks to Storm Emilia, which has brought intense rainfall across the entire Canary Islands, particularly in Tenerife. The precipitation is a very welcome relief for the drought the island has been suffering.
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