Climate & Environment

Storm Bruna triggers severe weather alerts across Canary Islands, prompting emergency restrictions

According to AEMET, the orange rain alerts for Sunday forecast accumulations of up to 100mm within a 12-hour period in the mountainous regions. In Gran Canaria, specific warnings indicate accumulations of 80 liters per square meter in 12 hours, with a particular impact on the southern and western slopes. The agency noted on its social media channels that “very heavy rain” is expected on Saturday night in La Palma and on Sunday across the other mountainous islands, creating conditions conducive to flooding and rapidly rising water levels in ravines.

In addition to rainfall, high winds are a significant factor. AEMET has issued two orange alerts for high winds across parts of La Palma and Tenerife, where gusts could reach speeds of up to 90km/h. On Gran Canaria, localized forecasts indicate gusts of up to 65km/h in Tunte, 75km/h in Tejeda, and 80km/h in Vega de San Mateo. Sea conditions are also expected to deteriorate, with Emergency Services issuing a coastal alert for the northern and western coasts of the archipelago starting at 18:00 PM on Saturday. Swells of 3 to 4 meters are forecast from Monday, November 9, onwards.

Photo by Helena Jankovičová Kováčová on Pexels

In response to the forecast conditions, the Canary Islands’ emergency plan will come into force at midnight on Sunday. From that time, access to tracks, paths, and trails in protected natural areas will be prohibited. Campsites and recreational areas will shut, and activities including canyoning, climbing, and outdoor sporting events will be suspended. Specific sites, including the Barranco de Masca and Barranco del Infierno, will remain closed throughout the day. Authorities have cautioned residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary travel, steer clear of ravines and exposed coastal areas, and adhere to instructions issued by emergency services due to the risks of flooding, falling rocks, and trees.

The weather patterns associated with Storm Bruna are expected to bring a shift in local conditions. In southern Gran Canaria, maximum temperatures are forecast to drop from 26°C to 24°C in Tunte and from 29°C to 27°C in the town center of Mogán between Saturday and Sunday. High humidity levels are expected to persist, contributing to the unsettled conditions. While the alerts are set to remain in place throughout Sunday, no warnings are currently scheduled for the archipelago by Monday, November 9.

Nicole Martin

Nicole Martin writes about environmental issues, climate policy, sustainability, conservation, and major weather-related developments. She follows environmental research, government action, and changes affecting ecosystems and communities. Nicole focuses on presenting complicated environmental stories in accessible language while keeping scientific evidence and verified information at the centre of her reporting.

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