British holidaymakers in Tenerife have been issued urgent warnings to remain indoors as Storm Therese unleashes havoc across the popular Spanish archipelago. The severe weather system, described by local outlets as the "storm of the decade," has brought gale-force winds and torrential rain to the Canary Islands, disrupting vacations and prompting emergency responses.
Emergency Measures Activated Amid Widespread Damage
Over recent days, Storm Therese has ravaged Tenerife and neighbouring islands, with winds reaching speeds of up to 70mph—surpassing the gale-force benchmark by more than 25mph. The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued an island-wide alert for Tenerife, alongside orange alerts for Gran Canaria, El Hierro, La Palma, and La Gomera. Local authorities have activated emergency plans, cancelling outdoor events and closing roads to ensure public safety.
Hotel Collapses and Tourist Disruptions
Dramatic photos have emerged showing significant structural damage, including a hotel ceiling collapse at the Bahia Principe Fantasia in Golf del Sur. A British holidaymaker, who requested anonymity, described the scene: "It rained heavy the whole night and you could hear thunder and lighting. Then I walked in the restaurant and the ceiling was down." The incident left water and debris scattered across a cordoned-off dining area, though no injuries were reported.
Despite the chaos, some tourists have braved the conditions to capture footage of frothing seas smashing against beachfronts, while others have sought temporary shelters in the worst-hit areas. Access roads to Teide National Park have been shuttered, and rescue operations have been deployed, including a helicopter mission near El Médano beach to save sailors from a vessel swept away in choppy waters.
Weather Anomaly in a Sun-Seeking Destination
Storm Therese has brought unseasonably wet, windy, and wintry weather to a region typically basking in spring sunshine and high temperatures. The storm, named by Portuguese authorities last week, has caused flooding in coastal areas, with water breaching sea defences and inundating streets. Remarkably, snow has even been reported on Tenerife in mid-March, adding to the surreal conditions.
Tourists have noted the erratic weather patterns, with one Brit observing, "It’s been hot, but with blasts of wind. The rain has came on heavy a few times a day. Then sun comes out and everyone runs to the sun beds." This has led to some holidaymakers cancelling breaks amid the wild weather and reported airport disruptions.
Safety Warnings and Ongoing Risks
The Cabildo de Tenerife, the island's council, has urged both locals and visitors to avoid all unnecessary travel and exercise extreme caution. While no casualties have been confirmed, the storm's intensity has raised concerns, with emergency services on high alert. Grupo Piniero, the owners of the Bahia Principe, have been contacted for comment regarding the hotel damage.
As Storm Therese continues to impact the Canary Islands, authorities stress the importance of heeding weather warnings and staying indoors where possible. The situation serves as a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability, even in beloved holiday hotspots.
