Full Breakdown
Tenerife Faces Severe Weather Disruption from Storm Therese
3/21/2026, 6:48:23 AM
Overview of Storm Therese's Impact
Tenerife, a popular holiday destination in the Canary Islands, has been significantly affected by Storm Therese, which has brought unseasonable weather, including snowfall, heavy rain, and high winds. The storm has prompted the activation of an island-wide emergency plan, leading to widespread travel disruptions and safety warnings for both residents and tourists.
Emergency Measures and Weather Warnings
On March 18, 2026, authorities declared a state of emergency in Tenerife as Storm Therese began to impact the region. The Canary Islands' government activated the Island Emergency Plan (PEIN), which includes the closure of major roads, hiking trails, and Teide National Park due to hazardous conditions. Rosa Dávila, the president of Tenerife, emphasized the need for "maximum caution" and urged residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.
The Spanish national meteorological agency, AEMET, issued orange weather alerts for various types of severe weather, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dangerous sea conditions. Wind gusts have reached up to 100 km/h (approximately 62 mph), with rainfall totals expected to exceed 100 mm (about 4 inches) in some areas within a 12-hour period. Snowfall has been reported at altitudes above 1,800 meters, particularly around Mount Teide, leading to road closures and dangerous conditions.
Travel Disruptions
The severe weather has resulted in significant travel disruptions, with at least 36 flights cancelled on March 18 and an additional seven flights cancelled or diverted the following day. Tourists arriving in Tenerife have expressed frustration after saving for vacations that have been marred by adverse weather conditions. The storm's impact is expected to continue, with further cancellations and delays anticipated as conditions remain unstable.
Criticism and Local Responses
Local officials have taken proactive measures to ensure public safety, including the closure of schools and the suspension of outdoor events. However, some residents and tourists have voiced concerns about the abruptness of the emergency measures and the impact on planned activities. The government has urged the public to secure loose outdoor items and to stay informed through official channels.
What's Next
As Storm Therese continues to affect the Canary Islands, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The weather warnings are expected to remain in place until at least March 22, 2026, with forecasts indicating that the worst conditions may persist through the weekend. Residents and visitors are advised to remain vigilant and follow guidance from local officials.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Starting today at 3pm, the island emergency response system is put into operation to prepare for an episode of adverse weather that will affect Tenerife over the coming days.” — Rosa Dávila, President of Tenerife
- “Tourists and locals have been urged to avoid unnecessary journeys during severe weather, take extra care around costal or mountainous areas and follow advice from local officials.” — Blanca Pérez, Councillor for Security and Emergencies
Conclusion
The situation in Tenerife serves as a reminder that even popular tourist destinations can be vulnerable to severe weather events. As Storm Therese continues to unfold, both locals and visitors must prioritize safety and stay informed about ongoing developments.
