Storm Emilia Causes Widespread Disruptions Across the Canary Islands

On Saturday morning, the Canary Islands faced significant disruptions as Storm Emilia swept through the region, prompting emergency services to report over 800 incidents. The storm’s impact was felt across multiple islands, with emergency responders working tirelessly to address the challenges posed by severe weather conditions.

Severe Weather Hits Tenerife and Gran Canaria

Moisés Sánchez, the director of the 112 emergency services, indicated that the bulk of the incidents occurred after 8:00 AM, with Tenerife and Gran Canaria being the hardest hit. Throughout the night, emergency services logged more than 200 incidents, although fortunately, no severe injuries were reported. The storm’s effects included isolated power outages in various parts of Tenerife, fallen trees obstructing roads, and the evacuation of coastal residents in Gáldar. In a striking display of nature’s fury, the islands recorded a staggering 725 lightning strikes, and weather forecasts suggest that heavier rainfall is expected in the hours to come.

Emergency Response Efforts in Tenerife

In response to the challenging conditions, the Cabildo insular of Tenerife reported that strong winds resulted in numerous incidents requiring immediate attention. Emergency crews worked diligently to clear fallen trees, fences, streetlights, and other debris from the roads to ensure safe passage for residents. Despite the isolated power cuts affecting areas such as Tegueste, La Laguna, La Esperanza, and Llano del Moro, basic services remained operational, as confirmed by the energy provider Endesa. A notable rescue operation took place when firefighters saved an individual in distress approximately 100 meters off the coast of Arona, with assistance from Salvamento Marítimo. In anticipation of further weather challenges, a shelter was established in Puerto de la Cruz for those in need, although only one individual took advantage of this facility.

Gran Canaria’s Situation and Precautions

Gran Canaria reported a total of 104 incidents by 9:00 AM on Saturday, with none classified as extreme, according to Carlos Velázquez, the technical director of the Insular Civil Protection Plan (PEIN). He characterized the overall situation as relatively calm, despite the heavy rainfall, particularly in the mountainous regions of the island. The storm led to road closures and instances of fallen trees and palm trees, with strong winds affecting the entire island, especially in the northern areas. Velázquez issued a warning regarding the hazardous waves, urging the public to avoid coastal areas and remain indoors to ensure their safety.

Minimal Disruptions in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote

Fuerteventura reported no serious incidents related to Storm Emilia; however, minor assistance was required due to localized flooding in low-lying areas, fallen debris on roads, and intermittent power cuts in Puerto del Rosario and Antigua, which were attributed to lightning strikes. While there were traffic accidents resulting from wet road conditions, fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. In Lanzarote, authorities noted five or six instances of fallen trees and flooding affecting several streets and homes in Arrecife, leading to necessary road closures until the water could be cleared. The winds also impacted solar panels, streetlights, and holiday decorations, with two traffic accidents reported overnight due to the slippery conditions and speeding. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely as the effects of Storm Emilia linger across the archipelago.

Key points

• Over 800 incidents reported in the Canary Islands due to Storm Emilia.
• No severe injuries have been reported from the storm.
• Isolated power outages occurred in Tenerife.
• 725 lightning strikes recorded across the islands.
• Gran Canaria experienced heavy rainfall and road closures.
• Minor incidents reported in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.
• Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.