Storm Bruna is set to bring disruptive weather to the Canary Islands this weekend, with Spanish meteorological agency AEMET issuing yellow and orange rain warnings for Saturday (November 7) and Sunday (November 8). The most severe conditions are expected on Sunday, when orange alerts are in force across five of the islands and yellow alerts across two more.
Orange Alerts for Heavy Rain and Wind
On Sunday, orange rain alerts are active in Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Tenerife, where up to 100mm of rain could fall within a 12-hour period, according to AEMET. The same day, two orange wind alerts are in force for parts of La Palma and Tenerife, with gusts potentially reaching 90kmh.
Less severe yellow alerts for rain, wind, and storms are in place across the whole archipelago throughout the day. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, AEMET wrote: "Adverse weather associated with Storm Bruna: orange warnings. Very heavy rain on Saturday night in La Palma and on Sunday in the other mountainous islands as well: possible flooding and rising water levels in ravines."
Emergency Plan Activated
Due to the forecast conditions, the Canary Islands' emergency plan will come into force at midnight on Sunday. From that time, access to tracks, paths, and trails in protected natural areas will be prohibited, according to Spanish news site Canarian Weekly.
Campsites and recreational areas will close, and activities including canyoning, climbing, and outdoor sporting events will be suspended. Access to the Barranco de Masca and Barranco del Infierno will remain closed throughout the day.
Safety Warnings and Outlook
Authorities have warned of possible flooding, falling rocks and trees, and rapidly rising water in ravines. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid unnecessary journeys during the worst conditions, stay away from ravines and exposed coastal areas, and follow instructions from emergency services.
The alerts are set to remain in place all day, but by Monday (November 9) there are no warnings across the Canary Islands.
