Canary Islands Government issues a major alert for rain in Tenerife

The Canary Islands Government has declared a rain alert for Tenerife, starting at 7:00pm this evening (Sunday), in the municipalities affected by the island's recent forest fire. This decision comes in anticipation of a front that, according to the AEMET forecast, will bring rain in the form of light to locally moderate showers which will get more persistent during the early hours of tomorrow, Monday.

This decision is made in preparation for unusual incidents that rain might cause in the areas of the fire due to ash, sediment, soil runoff, and landslides. Residents of these municipalities are urged to exercise caution when the ground is wet.

The affected municipalities include El Rosario, Tacoronte, El Sauzal, La Matanza de Acentejo, La Victoria de Acentejo, Santa Úrsula, La Orotava, and Los Realejos. For the rest of Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Gran Canaria, the Canary Islands Government has declared a pre-alert situation for rain based on available meteorological information and the application of the Specific Emergency Plan for the Canary Islands for Adverse Weather Phenomena (PEFMA).

According to forecasts, rainfall accumulation is likely to reach or exceed 60mm in 12 hours in parts of the eastern slope of La Palma and 40mm in 12 hours in the northern and northeastern highlands of Gran Canaria.

Government advice is as follows:
How to Prepare:
1 Pay attention to weather forecasts and follow the recommendations of the authorities.

2 Check the condition of roofs, water tanks, drains, and drainpipes

3 Do not park your vehicle in the dry riverbeds, even if the sky is clear.

4 Review and have a flashlight or candles, a camping gas stove in case of power outage, drinking water, medicine, battery-operated radio, etc.

5 Close and secure windows and doors to prevent water from entering in the event of flooding.

6 Avoid going on hikes or camping until normal conditions are restored.

7 Limit your travels. If necessary, drive with caution and avoid crossing areas that may become flooded.

What to Do During the Rain Alert:
1 Tune in to local radio stations and follow the provided instructions.

2 If the storm is accompanied by lightning, close windows and doors to prevent air currents that attract lightning.

3 Unplug electrical appliances to prevent damage from power surges or electrical shocks.

4 In case of flooding, turn off the main electricity feed in your home.

5 If you get caught in a storm while driving, reduce your speed and take extra precautions as the road may be affected by landslides.

6 Avoid stopping in areas with a large amount of water flow, and do not cross flooded sections to avoid being swept away by the water.

7 If you're in the countryside, remember not to take shelter under solitary trees, avoid going to elevated areas, and stay away from fences, towers, or any metal structures.

8 Avoid making phone calls to prevent line congestion.

9 In case of an emergency, do not hesitate to call 1-1-2.