The Canary Islands have had more rain in one day than the entire winter season

The weather phenomenon known as an “isolated depression at high levels”, or DANA has brought a barrage of rain, snow, hail, lightning, thunder, and cold weather to the Canary Islands, causing various incidents across the archipelago. Fortunately, there have been no reports of personal injuries thus far.

However, the amount of rain has been much needed with some areas experiencing more in a single day than they have had during the entire winter season.

Since the onset of the rains on Friday afternoon, the emergency services have recorded 124 incidents across the islands. Most have been related to landslides and falling rocks, particularly affecting roads in the northern regions of Gran Canaria, the Anaga massif area in Tenerife, as well as various parts of La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro.

Road closures were necessary due to icy patches and snow accumulation, impacting access to the Teide National Park (Tenerife) and Roque de Los Muchachos in La Palma.

While some roads in Tenerife have since reopened after cleanup efforts, authorities advise caution and discourage unnecessary travel to high-altitude areas.

Reports of sewer overflows and water drainage issues have surfaced from several municipalities, mainly in the northern regions of Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, and Tenerife. Additionally, some areas experienced lengthy power outages.

The General Directorate of Emergencies of the Canary Islands has extended rain alerts for Tenerife based on forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET). The alert remains in effect for Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, and Tenerife, with other islands on pre-alert status. The warning for heavy rain is expected to persist until this evening (Sunday), with the possibility of localised heavy showers.

Given the ongoing weather instability, emergency services advise against unnecessary travel and driving during heavy rain. Precautions include monitoring water levels, reducing driving speed, avoiding flooded areas, and staying away from trees and metal structures during storms.

Formerly referred to as a cold drop, a DANA occurs when undulations in the polar jet stream isolate a part of atmospheric circulation, leading to localised weather disruptions.

As the situation evolves, authorities continue to monitor and provide updates to ensure public safety but meteorologists expect the DANA to start leaving the Canary Islands slowly moving to the northeast away from the archipelago.