Tenerife Declares State of Emergency Amid Severe Storm Therese
The holiday island of Tenerife has officially declared a state of emergency as Storm Therese batters the Canary Islands, prompting significant travel disruptions and safety concerns for UK tourists. Spain's meteorological agency, Aemet, has issued yellow and orange weather warnings across the region, forecasting extreme conditions including strong winds, heavy downpours, flash flooding, and rough seas.
Severe Weather Impacts and Closures
Rainfall totals are expected to exceed 300mm in parts of La Palma and Tenerife, leading to widespread flooding and hazardous travel conditions. In a rare event, Mount Teide has been closed due to snowfall, highlighting the storm's intensity. Island President Rosa Dávila reported numerous incidents, such as falling lights, power outages, and emergency rescues in coastal areas, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Travel Disruptions and Flight Delays
While flights from Tenerife's airports are largely operating, significant delays have been noted, with 22 flights affected at Tenerife North. Holidaymakers are strongly advised to exercise maximum caution and avoid unnecessary travel to ensure safety. The UK Foreign Office has not issued new travel advice specifically for Tenerife, meaning that cancellations and insurance claims will depend on individual holiday providers and policy terms.
Advice for UK Tourists
UK tourists planning trips to Tenerife should closely monitor weather updates and maintain contact with their travel providers for the latest information. It is crucial to review insurance policies to understand coverage for weather-related disruptions. Authorities recommend staying indoors during peak storm periods and adhering to local safety guidelines to minimise risks.
This developing situation requires vigilance from all travellers, as Storm Therese continues to impact the Canary Islands with unpredictable weather patterns.
