What observers say
“Starting today at 3pm, the island emergency response system is put into operation to prepare for an episode of adverse weather that will affect Tenerife over the coming days,” stated Rosa Dávila, a local government official, as Storm Therese began to impact the Canary Islands.
An emergency has been declared on Tenerife due to the impending storm, which is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph and heavy rainfall that could accumulate to 11 inches in some areas. The Island Emergency Plan (PEIN) was activated on March 18 at 3pm, marking the start of heightened safety measures for both residents and the approximately 2.8 million UK visitors who frequent the island annually.
In preparation for the storm, all outdoor events have been cancelled until further notice, and Teide National Park has been closed due to the forecast of snowfall at elevations above 1,800 metres. Authorities have urged both residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary journeys and to secure any loose outdoor items that could become hazardous in the high winds.
As the storm progressed, travel disruptions became evident. On March 18 alone, 26 flights were cancelled and 7 were diverted, leaving many tourists stranded or facing delays. The situation remains fluid as Storm Therese continues to affect the islands, and details remain unconfirmed regarding any further flight cancellations beyond this date.
The local government has emphasized the importance of safety during this time, advising everyone to remain vigilant and prepared for rapidly changing conditions. “Residents and tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary journeys and take extra care while driving,” a spokesperson for the local authorities stated, highlighting the potential dangers posed by the storm.
As the storm is expected to last until March 22, the impact on tourism and daily life in Tenerife will likely be significant. With many visitors relying on the island’s outdoor attractions, the closure of parks and cancellation of events could lead to a challenging experience for those vacationing in the region.
In light of these developments, local businesses and tourism operators are bracing for the effects of the storm on their operations. The hope is that the emergency measures will ensure the safety of all individuals on the island while minimizing the disruption to tourism as much as possible.
As the situation evolves, updates will be provided by local authorities to keep both residents and tourists informed about the ongoing emergency and any necessary precautions that need to be taken.