Storm Therese Disrupts Canary Islands, Bringing Snow and Travel Chaos

The Canary Islands are experiencing unusually severe weather as Storm Therese brings snow, torrential rain, and gale-force winds, causing significant disruption to travel and daily life. Tenerife, a popular holiday destination, has been particularly affected, with emergency plans activated and numerous flights cancelled.

Unexpected Snowfall and Emergency Response

Tenerife has been blanketed in snow, a rare occurrence for the typically warm island, particularly just days before the Easter break. The Tenerife Island Council activated its Island Emergency Plan (PEIN) on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, and it is expected to remain in place at least until Sunday. This activation allows authorities to coordinate emergency resources across the island.

The decision to activate the PEIN came as weather experts cautioned that a weather event of this magnitude hadn’t been seen for many years.

Travel Disruptions and Warnings

Storm Therese has led to widespread travel disruption. At least seven flights to the Canary Islands were cancelled or diverted on Thursday, March 19, 2026, following 36 cancellations the previous day.

Authorities have issued orange weather warnings for Tenerife, El Hierro, La Palma, and La Gomera, forecasting up to 11mm of rainfall in just 12 hours. An amber rain warning is in effect for Gran Canaria, with up to 80mm of precipitation expected.

Hazardous sea conditions are also predicted between Tenerife and Gran Canaria, with waves reaching up to six metres and wind speeds up to force eight. Residents and tourists are being urged to avoid unnecessary travel, exercise caution in coastal and mountainous areas, and follow guidance from local officials.

Severe Weather Conditions

The storm has brought torrential rain and gale-force winds to the archipelago, triggering flash floods and landslides across multiple regions. Wind speeds have surpassed 74 miles per hour in some areas.

Snowfall is anticipated to continue in areas of Tenerife above 1,800-2,000 metres, and Teide National Park has been closed due to the snow.

Looking Ahead

The most critical period of Storm Therese is expected to occur on Thursday and Friday, March 20-21, 2026, but officials have not ruled out continued disruption into the weekend. Residents and visitors are advised to stay informed and heed the warnings issued by local authorities.