Hold onto your hats, because Storm Emilia is about to unleash its full fury on the Canary Islands, and it’s not going to be pretty. The archipelago is bracing for a weekend of chaos as this powerful storm brings a dangerous mix of high winds, torrential rain, and even snow to areas typically known for their sunny skies. But here’s where it gets even more intense: the worst is expected to hit on Saturday, leaving residents and visitors alike on high alert.
The Canary Islands government has pulled no punches, issuing a maximum alert for coastal hazards as Emilia sweeps through. We’re talking waves so high they could rival small skyscrapers, winds strong enough to uproot trees, and rainfall that threatens to turn streets into rivers. And this is the part most people miss—while Lanzarote and Fuerteventura might catch a slight break with mostly yellow-level alerts, the rest of the islands are staring down the barrel of orange warnings, signaling significant danger.
Tenerife, in particular, is taking no chances. Authorities have activated the Island Emergency Plan (PEIN) and shut down access to Teide National Park, along with all hiking trails. Why? Because forecasts predict thunderstorms, hail, and snowfall—yes, snow—on an island better known for its beaches. Spain’s State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) isn’t mincing words: this storm is serious business.
Here’s the kicker: Emilia has already started causing trouble. On Friday, flights at Tenerife North Airport were diverted or delayed, leaving travelers stranded and frustrated. By late afternoon, five flights had been rerouted, and two were canceled outright. But AEMET’s delegate in the Canary Islands, David Suárez, warns that the real drama is yet to come. ‘This will be a complicated situation,’ he said, emphasizing that the most severe impacts will hit Tenerife and Gran Canaria during the morning and midday on Saturday.
Winds are expected to howl at speeds exceeding 70 to 100 kilometers per hour in the northern parts of both islands, while rainfall will be widespread but uneven. The northern halves of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, along with Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and parts of La Palma and La Gomera, are in for the heaviest downpours. But here’s the controversial part: while some areas brace for flooding, others are preparing for snow. Yes, snow. Tenerife could see accumulations of up to five centimeters above 1,600 meters, a rare sight for this tropical paradise.
Coastal areas are also in the crosshairs, with dangerous sea conditions threatening to flood seaside promenades, bathing areas, and roads—especially during high tide. Emergency services are pleading with everyone to stay vigilant, avoid unnecessary travel, and respect closures put in place for safety. But let’s pause for a moment—is this storm a one-off event, or a sign of changing weather patterns in the Canary Islands? Could climate change be playing a role in these increasingly extreme conditions?
As Emilia bears down, one thing is clear: this storm is a stark reminder of nature’s power. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, staying informed and prepared is key. So, what do you think? Is this storm an anomaly, or part of a larger trend? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take on this wild weather phenomenon.
