An unusual and powerful Atlantic system, Storm Teresa, has swept across the Canary Islands, bringing a rare mix of heavy rain, strong winds, and even snowfall to parts of the region more commonly associated with sunshine and mild weather.
Rare Snowfall on Tenerife and Madeira
One of the most striking features of the storm has been snowfall on the higher elevations of Tenerife, particularly around Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak at roughly 3,700 meters. Snow accumulation in this area, while not unheard of, remains a relatively rare and visually dramatic event.
Similar winter conditions have also been reported in the mountainous areas of Madeira, where colder air combined with moisture from the storm created ideal conditions for snow at higher altitudes.
Severe Weather Conditions and Warnings
Authorities issued an orange weather warning for Tenerife as the storm intensified. Some areas recorded up to 100 mm of rainfall within a 12-hour period, significantly increasing the risk of flash flooding and landslides.
Wind gusts reached between 90 and 100 km/h, creating hazardous conditions across the islands. Several key roads, including access routes to Mount Teide, were closed as a precaution.
Disruptions Across the Islands
The impact of Storm Teresa has been felt across multiple islands:
- Over 30 flights were canceled or delayed due to severe weather conditions
- Ferry services were suspended as waves reached heights of up to 6 meters
- Temporary shelters were opened in vulnerable coastal areas
- Public events were canceled as a safety measure
On islands such as La Palma and Gran Canaria, authorities closely monitored coastal flooding risks due to rough seas.
Schools Closed and Emergency Measures Activated
In response to the worsening conditions, schools were closed for two days in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and across several islands, including Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro.
Local governments activated emergency response plans, urging residents to stay indoors, work remotely where possible, and avoid unnecessary travel.
What Comes Next?
Meteorologists expect the storm to gradually weaken by the end of the weekend. However, unsettled weather and intermittent rainfall may continue into the early part of the following week.
Storm Teresa highlights how even typically mild destinations like the Canary Islands can experience extreme and unpredictable weather.
The combination of Atlantic moisture, elevation, and atmospheric instability created conditions rarely seen in this part of the world.
Sources:
- https://www.aemet.es (Spanish State Meteorological Agency)
- https://www.ipma.pt (Portuguese Institute for Sea and Atmosphere)
- https://weather.com
- https://www.bbc.com
