Canary Islands Floods: British Tourists Rescued from Submerged Minibus

Dramatic scenes unfolded in Tenerife, Canary Islands, as five British tourists were rescued after becoming trapped in a minibus engulfed by floodwater. The incident occurred amidst torrential downpours and severe weather warnings impacting the region.

Dramatic Rescue in Puerto de la Cruz

The incident took place around 9 pm on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, in Puerto de la Cruz, northern Tenerife, an area known locally as “El Pulpo” – or “The Octopus” – near the town’s famous Botanical Gardens. A rare emergency alert was simultaneously sent to mobile phones in the area, warning of imminent flooding danger. The minibus, carrying five British tourists, was forced to stop due to the rapidly rising water levels, turning the road into a fast-moving river.

Footage captured the harrowing moment a British tourist climbed onto the roof of the vehicle, screaming for help. “Can someone get us help?” she shouted, as the floodwater surged around the minibus. Another British tourist responded, urging her to stay put, while an Italian onlooker attempted to reassure her that police were on their way. Express reported on the dramatic rescue.

Firefighter Intervention and Tourist Distress

As the situation escalated, the driver managed to help three of the tourists reach safety. However, two women remained stranded on the roof of the minibus. One of the women was visibly distressed, breaking down in tears and resorting to vaping while awaiting rescue. Firefighters successfully reached the stranded passengers by lowering a ladder from a nearby bridge, safely lifting them from the vehicle. Daily Mail provided details on the rescue operation.

Widespread Chaos from Storm Therese

The rescue operation occurred as Storm Therese continues to batter the Canary Islands, causing widespread disruption and damage. Dams have overflowed, roads have collapsed and communities have been cut off. Flights have been cancelled or diverted, and thousands of residents and tourists have been evacuated or stranded across the archipelago. The Sun reports that Puerto de la Cruz is among the worst-affected areas.

Emergency services have responded to nearly 2,000 weather-related incidents since the storm began last week, with Tenerife now at the center of the crisis. A red weather alert was issued for the island’s north, warning of “extraordinary danger,” with potential rainfall of up to 60mm in one hour, accompanied by violent winds and near-zero visibility.

Ongoing Warnings and Safety Precautions

Authorities are urging residents and tourists to remain indoors, avoid travel, and never attempt to cross floodwater. The situation remains critical and highly unpredictable, with further chaos expected as Storm Therese continues to impact the region. Mirror is following the developments closely.