Tenerife Declares Emergency Amid 75mph Winds from Storm Therese
Tenerife has declared a state of emergency as Storm Therese brings gusts reaching about 75mph to the Canary Islands. Aemet issued yellow and orange warnings across the archipelago. The island authority activated its Island Emergency Plan (PEIN) from 15:00 on Wednesday.
Warnings and forecast
Aemet warned of very heavy downpours, strong gusts, flash flooding and rough seas. The agency said the system would affect the islands from Thursday, 19 March, until at least Sunday. Wave heights over five metres were forecast, and up to 300mm of rain could fall in places.
Significant snow accumulations are expected on high peaks in La Palma and Tenerife. Officials noted the cold front Therese deepened west of the Iberian Peninsula. Adverse weather across Gran Canaria could not be ruled out as the front crosses the archipelago on Friday.
Local response and measures
The Tenerife Cabildo put emergency resources on alert and mobilised more than 1,000 emergency personnel and troops. Island president Rosa Dávila urged residents to exercise maximum caution and to avoid unnecessary travel. Authorities reported incidents including falling lanterns, power outages and water accumulation.
Several rescues occurred in coastal areas and ravines because of strong waves and rising water. Schools were closed on Thursday and Friday. Remote working was encouraged for non-essential staff.
- Suspension of cultural, sports and public events involving inter-municipal travel.
- Road closures across the Canary Islands, including access to Mount Teide.
- Restrictions and contingency measures for essential services only.
Transport and travel impact
Roads across the islands have been closed as precaution. Mount Teide access is among the affected routes. Airports in Tenerife reported operations largely as scheduled despite the storm.
| Airport | Delayed flights (Friday morning) |
|---|---|
| Tenerife North | 23 |
| Tenerife South | 24 |
Authorities warned holidaymakers of possible last-minute cancellations and diversions. Flight-tracking services showed multiple delays on Friday morning. Travellers should check with airlines for updates before travelling to airports.
Safety guidance
Residents and visitors were asked to follow official channels for real-time updates. Avoid coastal promenades and ravines during the storm. If travel is unavoidable, plan alternative routes and allow extra time.
Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as new information becomes available.
