Storm Emilia Brings Ferocious Winds to Tenerife

In a dramatic turn of weather, Storm Emilia has unleashed a wave of powerful winds across the island of Tenerife, particularly impacting the province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The storm’s ferocity has led to a series of disruptions, highlighting the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions in the region.

Extent of Damage and Disruptions

The primary impact of Storm Emilia has been felt through wind-related disruptions rather than significant rainfall. Residents have reported numerous incidents, including fallen trees that have obstructed roads, damaged lamp posts that pose safety risks, and festive decorations that have been displaced, creating a chaotic scene in various neighborhoods. The Spanish Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has been closely monitoring the situation, noting that the highest wind speed recorded in the Canary Islands reached an astonishing 134 kilometres per hour at Izaña, Tenerife. This level of wind intensity is not only unusual but also raises concerns about potential hazards for both residents and infrastructure.

Wind Speed Records Across Tenerife

In addition to the record-setting winds at Izaña, other areas in Tenerife have also reported significant wind speeds. La Dehesa, situated in the municipality of El Pinar, recorded winds reaching 64 kilometres per hour, while the Tenerife North-City of La Laguna Airport experienced gusts of 57 kilometres per hour. These measurements indicate that the storm’s effects are widespread, impacting various locations across the island. Notably, Izaña and El Pinar are recognized as some of the top locations in the Canary Islands for wind gusts, with measurements soaring to 159 kilometres per hour and 93 kilometres per hour, respectively. Such extreme wind speeds can lead to dangerous conditions, prompting local authorities to issue warnings and advisories for residents.

Comparative Rainfall Analysis

While the winds have dominated the headlines, it is interesting to note the contrasting rainfall data across the region. Santa Cruz de Tenerife experienced minimal precipitation during the storm, which is a stark contrast to the province of Las Palmas, where higher rainfall levels were reported. The most significant rainfall was recorded at Las Cañadas of the Teide, where 2.8 millilitres of rain fell. Following closely behind was El Paso in La Palma, which saw 2 millilitres of rain, and the area surrounding Palma Airport, which recorded 1 millilitre of precipitation. This disparity in rainfall highlights the localized nature of weather patterns and the varying impacts of Storm Emilia across the Canary Islands.

Community Response and Preparedness

In light of the severe weather conditions, local authorities have been proactive in their response efforts. Emergency services have been deployed to assess the damage and clear obstructed roads, ensuring that residents can navigate safely. Community centers have also been opened to provide shelter for those affected by the storm. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and stay informed about weather updates as the situation evolves. The local government has emphasized the importance of preparedness, encouraging residents to secure loose items around their homes and to avoid unnecessary travel during peak wind conditions.

Key points

• Storm Emilia has caused significant wind disruptions in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Izaña recorded the highest wind speed in the Canary Islands at 134 km/h.
• La Dehesa and Tenerife North-City of La Laguna Airport reported wind speeds of 64 km/h and 57 km/h, respectively.
• Izaña and El Pinar had wind gusts of 159 km/h and 93 km/h.
• Precipitation levels in Santa Cruz de Tenerife were low compared to Las Palmas.
• Las Cañadas of the Teide recorded the highest rainfall at 2.8 millilitres.