Full Breakdown
Storm Therese Devastates the Canary Islands: A Comprehensive Overview
3/25/2026, 10:08:25 PM
Severe Weather Conditions and Emergency Response
Storm Therese has been described as one of the worst storms to hit the Canary Islands in over a decade, leading to a state of emergency across the archipelago. Torrential rains, strong winds reaching up to 100 km/h, and significant snowfall at higher altitudes have caused widespread flooding and infrastructure damage. Authorities have reported over 700 liters of rain per square meter in some areas, prompting the evacuation of entire neighborhoods, particularly in Agaete, where fears of dam overflow have escalated. The Military Emergency Unit has been deployed to assist local emergency services, which have recorded thousands of incidents across the islands.
Impact on Residents and Tourists
The storm has left more than 3,000 people stranded or displaced, with many British tourists caught in the chaos just before the Easter holiday. Reports indicate that tourists have been advised to remain indoors as hotels and roads have suffered extensive damage. Videos circulating on social media show individuals pleading for help after becoming trapped in floodwaters. Emergency services have conducted numerous rescues, including a significant operation to save around 60 people from a small boat off the coast of Tenerife.
Infrastructure Damage and Travel Disruptions
The storm has caused severe disruptions to transportation, with numerous flights canceled or diverted from airports in Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Tenerife. Reports of chaotic scenes at Tenerife South Airport highlight the challenges faced by travelers, with lengthy queues and malfunctioning e-gates exacerbating the situation. Landslides have rendered over 10 roads impassable, isolating communities and complicating rescue efforts.
Official Statements and Responses
Antonio Morales, president of the Gran Canaria Island Council, emphasized the unprecedented nature of the storm, stating, “We are facing historic circumstances in terms of the volume of rainfall and its impact on the island territory.” Local authorities have urged residents and tourists to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel as conditions remain dangerous.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the emergency response, some residents have expressed frustration over the preparedness of local authorities. Critics argue that the scale of the storm was not adequately anticipated, leading to delays in evacuations and emergency services. Federico Grillo, the technical director of emergency services, acknowledged the unpredictability of the storm's impact, stating, “No one anywhere on the planet could have foreseen something like this.”
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While many reports indicate significant rainfall and flooding, there are discrepancies regarding the extent of damage and the number of people affected. Some sources suggest that the storm has revitalized drought-affected areas, while others focus on the devastation and chaos experienced by residents and tourists alike.
What's Next
As the storm begins to subside, weather warnings remain in effect across several islands, with authorities continuing to monitor the situation closely. Meteorologists predict that conditions may improve in the coming days, but caution remains essential as the aftermath of Storm Therese unfolds.
In summary, Storm Therese has brought unprecedented challenges to the Canary Islands, impacting thousands of residents and tourists while prompting a significant emergency response. The full extent of the damage and the recovery process will continue to be assessed in the days ahead.
