Heavy rains impacting the Canary Islands, particularly La Palma, Tenerife, and Lanzarote, have led to several incidents over the past few hours, including disruptions to power lines, rockfalls on roads, and traffic accidents. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, according to the Emergency Services Coordination Centre (CECOES). Authorities have issued an ongoing rain alert for Lanzarote and a pre-alert for La Palma and Tenerife.
The Government of the Canary Islands, following guidance from the General Directorate of Emergencies and in accordance with the Canary Islands' Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA), declared the alert and pre-alert status for these islands yesterday (Tuesday).
This decision was based on forecasts from AEMET, which indicated light to moderate rainfall with the potential for heavy showers. Rainfall rates could reach or exceed 15 litres per hour, with cumulative totals of 60mm over 12 hours in La Palma and Tenerife, and 40mm in Lanzarote.
The areas most affected by the rain include the peaks and western regions of La Palma, the northern and metropolitan areas of Tenerife, and central Lanzarote, which experienced the heaviest rainfall overnight.
The weather was expected to improve by midday today, however, the General Directorate of Emergencies is closely monitoring the situation, particularly in Lanzarote, where heavy rain poses a heightened risk. Residents in Tenerife are also urged to exercise extreme caution when driving on roads, especially during this afternoon’s commute.
