Tenerife Declares Island-Wide Emergency as Storm Therese Approaches

Authorities in Tenerife have declared an island-wide emergency as Storm Therese, the 19th named storm of the 2025-26 season, approaches the Canary Islands. The activation of the Island Emergency Plan (PEIN) was announced on March 18, 2026, at 3 PM local time, following forecasts predicting severe weather conditions, including winds exceeding 62 mph (100 km/h), heavy rainfall, and snowfall in higher altitudes.

Island president Rosa Dávila emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the measures were implemented to protect public safety. "Starting today at 3 PM, 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," she said.

In preparation for the storm, authorities have imposed widespread closures and restrictions across the island. The TF-445 road leading to Punta de Teno has been closed, along with hiking trails, forest tracks, and recreational areas. Teide National Park is also closed due to snowfall from an altitude of 5,900 feet (1,800 m). All outdoor events have been suspended to mitigate the risk of landslides, flooding, and accidents in high-risk areas.

As the storm approaches, residents and tourists are being urged to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay informed through official updates. The Spanish state meteorological agency, AEMET, has issued several weather warnings, including orange-level alerts for wind in La Palma and northern Tenerife, and yellow warnings for rain across all seven Canary Islands.

According to forecasts, rainfall could exceed 300 liters per square meter in some areas, significantly increasing the risk of flooding. Coastal warnings are also in effect, with waves expected to reach heights of 13 to 16 feet (4-5 m), and potentially up to 20 feet (6 m) in areas like La Palma and El Hierro.

Blanca Pérez, the councillor for Security and Emergencies, highlighted the importance of these measures, stating, "The goal is to anticipate incidents and respond quickly if conditions worsen." The local councils have activated their municipal emergency plans, which include monitoring coastal areas and inspecting infrastructure to ensure safety.

Weather experts have warned that Storm Therese could be one of the most intense weather events to affect the Canary Islands in the past 13 years. The storm is expected to reach its peak intensity on March 19 and 20, with continued disruptions possible into the weekend. Authorities are mobilizing all available resources to respond effectively, with over 1,000 responders on alert across Tenerife.

In addition to the emergency measures, schools in Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro will be closed on March 19, with online classes being held instead. The Maspalomas Carnival in Gran Canaria, which was scheduled to run from March 10 to March 22, has also been postponed.

As residents prepare for the storm, many are taking precautionary measures, securing loose outdoor items and stocking up on supplies. The government has advised people to stay away from flood-prone areas such as ravines and to avoid coastal regions affected by strong waves.

In the wake of Storm Therese, the authorities are implementing a robust emergency response system. This includes increased surveillance of coastal areas, clearing drainage systems, and ensuring that loose objects are secured to prevent them from being displaced by strong winds.

Authorities have reiterated the importance of public compliance with safety recommendations, particularly during the storm's peak. With the potential for widespread disruption and hazardous conditions, the coming days will be critical for emergency response systems across the island.

As the storm approaches, the situation remains dynamic, and residents are urged to stay informed and heed warnings from local authorities. The community is coming together to navigate these challenging conditions, emphasizing safety and preparedness in the face of nature's unpredictability.

Storm Therese serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of readiness in the face of severe weather events. As Tenerife braces for what could be one of the most significant storms in over a decade, the island's emergency services are on high alert, ready to respond to any challenges that may arise.