Storm Bruna is set to bring heavy rain and strong winds across the entire Canary Islands archipelago this weekend, prompting Spanish meteorological agency AEMET to issue severe weather warnings that carry a "significant danger" for the region.
Yellow and orange rain warnings are in place for Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8. The most severe conditions are expected on Sunday, when orange alerts cover five of the islands and yellow alerts apply to a further two.
Rainfall and wind forecasts
On Sunday, orange rain alerts are active across Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and Tenerife, where AEMET forecasts rainfall of up to 100mm within a 12-hour period.
Two additional orange alerts for high winds cover parts of La Palma and Tenerife, where gusts could reach up to 90kmh. Less severe yellow alerts for rain, wind and storms remain in place across the whole archipelago throughout the day.
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, AEMET stated: "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 measures
Because of the conditions forecast for Sunday, the Canary Islands' emergency plan will come into force at midnight. Access to tracks, paths and trails in protected natural areas will be prohibited from that point, according to Spanish news site Canarian Weekly.
Campsites and recreational areas will shut, and activities including canyoning, climbing and outdoor sporting events will be called off. Access to the Barranco de Masca and Barranco del Infierno will remain closed throughout the day.
Safety advice and outlook
Authorities have warned of potential flooding, falling rocks and trees, and rapidly rising water levels in ravines. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during the worst conditions, steer clear of ravines and exposed coastal areas, and follow instructions issued by emergency services.
The alerts are expected to stay in place throughout the day, but by Monday, November 9, no warnings are in force across the Canary Islands.
