Ferocious storms have pummeled the Canary Islands, leading to the evacuation of thousands of residents and leaving British tourists caught in the chaos. Storm Theresa, now in its fifth day, has unleashed relentless rain, causing extensive flooding and landslides across the archipelago just days before the Easter holiday break.
Widespread Evacuations and Emergency Measures
On Gran Canaria alone, more than 3,000 people have been evacuated or stranded after overnight deluges triggered severe flooding, cutting off entire communities. Evacuees are currently sheltering in a temporary facility at a secondary school, with emergency services warning that conditions could deteriorate further.
Local media have labeled the event 'the storm of the century', urging holidaymakers to remain indoors as roads collapse, hotels are battered, and reservoirs reach critical levels. In the worst-hit areas, such as the Arguineguín ravine, dozens are isolated, prompting emergency measures.
Infrastructure and Property Damage
Landslides have blocked over 10 roads, isolating parts of the island, including a main route after the Arguineguín ravine burst its banks. Tourist hotspots like San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Santa Lucía, Mogán, and Telde are wrought with havoc. In mountainous regions, access roads are severely limited and unsafe, while coastal properties in areas like Pozo Izquierdo have been damaged by wind and spray.
At least 10 reservoirs are releasing water through dams to alleviate pressure, with growing fears that the Las Niñas dam could overflow next. Entire neighborhoods in the village of Agaete have been evacuated due to concerns that a nearby reservoir might burst, threatening homes in Los Pérez and El Hornillo.
Travel Disruptions and Power Outages
Flights from London, Manchester, and Newcastle have been diverted from the storm-ridden islands, with Lanzarote hit hardest—experiencing one cancellation and eight diversions. Air travel is slowly normalizing, but delays persist, particularly at La Palma.
On Tenerife, 73mph winds knocked out power and street lighting in southwestern and northwestern areas overnight. Initially, 30 people were completely cut off from electricity, though only a few remain without power now. Reports indicate one hotel roof collapsed under the extreme weather, with guests advised to stay indoors.
Rescue Operations and Shelter Needs
Dramatic rescues are underway across the islands. In Vallehermoso on La Gomera, 15 residents, including children, were cut off after a retaining wall collapsed; three are set to be airlifted out, while others have chosen to remain in their homes.
On Tenerife, 80 people, many of them homeless, have been housed in emergency centres in Adeje, Puerto de la Cruz, and Santa Cruz. On Gran Canaria, five residents near the Agaete ravine have been evacuated, and a further 60 are stuck in Arguineguín.
Weather Forecast and Warnings
Yellow warnings remain in place across the islands, with forecasts predicting more heavy rain, thunderstorms, and hail. Brits have been warned to avoid travel and stay away from ravines. Forecasters suggest the storm may ease between Wednesday and Thursday as trade winds return, but caution that this could change.
The coastline continues to be battered by wind and violent waves, causing further property damage. As the situation unfolds, authorities are closely monitoring developments to ensure public safety amid the ongoing natural disaster.
