Red Alert for storms issued in north Tenerife and Emergency SMS sent to all mobile phones
Tenerife has been placed on maximum alert as Storm Therese takes a sudden turn, bringing intense rainfall and dangerous conditions across the island. The worst conditions are expected to hit the metropolitan area and the municipality of Tacoronte.
The Cabildo has activated the highest level of its emergency plan in the north, while maintaining maximum risk status in the metropolitan area and alert level across the rest of Tenerife.
The measures came into force at 8:45pm tonight (Tuesday) following updated forecasts warning of continued heavy rain. Authorities say the storm remains unpredictable, with persistent and locally intense downpours affecting large parts of the island.
Rainfall has already reached up to 80 litres per square metre in some metropolitan areas, far exceeding earlier expectations.
Emergency Alerts Sent to Mobile Phones
In response, island president Rosa Dávila confirmed that the ES-Alert system has been activated, sending emergency warnings directly to mobile phones across affected areas in the north of the island.
She urged residents not to panic at the loud alert tone, stressing that the system is designed to ensure vital safety information reaches everyone quickly.
Surge in Emergency Incidents
Storm Therese is already placing severe pressure on emergency services. Since the weather system began, nearly 1,800 incidents have been recorded across the Canary Islands.
Tuesday alone has seen a dramatic spike, with 653 incidents logged in just 18 hours — far exceeding previous daily totals.
While Gran Canaria has so far recorded the majority of incidents, the focus of concern is now shifting towards Tenerife as conditions worsen.
More Severe Weather Expected
Heavy and persistent rainfall is forecast to continue across Tenerife in the coming hours.
Conditions are also expected to deteriorate in La Palma later in the day, with strong winds of up to 90 km/h forecast in higher areas. Although winds may ease overnight, uncertainty remains into Wednesday.
Safety Advice for Residents and Visitors
Authorities are urging both residents and tourists to follow strict safety guidance:
- Avoid all unnecessary travel, especially on inland and secondary roads
- Never attempt to cross flooded ravines or waterways
- Call emergency services immediately if someone is in danger
- Secure doors and windows to prevent water entering homes
- If driving, reduce speed and do not attempt to pass through flooded areas
Officials stress that the situation remains highly volatile and are calling for maximum cooperation from the public as Storm Therese continues to impact the Canary Islands.
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