The Canary Islands are continuing to experience unsettled weather as Storm Therese persists, bringing with it heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the threat of hail. While the storm has lost some intensity, the archipelago remains under alert for potential disruptions, particularly in coastal areas and higher elevations. The situation began to escalate on Friday, March 19, 2026, and is expected to gradually improve throughout Sunday, March 22, 2026, though lingering effects are anticipated.
The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued warnings for various islands, including yellow alerts for rain, wind, and potential thunderstorms. The most significant impacts are expected in the western islands, with the possibility of localized heavy downpours and strong gusts of wind. This ongoing weather event follows a period of relative calm, but Therese has regained strength, bringing renewed challenges to the region. The storm is a stark contrast to the generally clear weather being experienced elsewhere in Spain, according to AEMET forecasts.
Storm Therese: Current Conditions and Forecast
As of Sunday morning, March 22, 2026, the Canary Islands are experiencing cloudy skies and persistent precipitation, especially in areas of higher relief. Rainfall is expected to be abundant and prolonged, with the potential for intense bursts, particularly on the west and south slopes of La Palma and Tenerife. The possibility of thunderstorms and hail remains, potentially complicating conditions in certain areas. Waves exceeding 6 meters (under an orange alert) are impacting the west of La Palma, all of El Hierro, the south of Tenerife, and the south of Gran Canaria, while the rest of the archipelago is experiencing waves around 4 meters.
The AEMET also maintains a yellow alert for snow at Teide National Park in Tenerife, where some initial snowfall was observed on Thursday, March 18, 2026. Winds are currently blowing from the southwest with strong intervals and incredibly strong gusts, particularly in exposed areas and at higher altitudes, though they are expected to subside as the day progresses. Accumulated rainfall in the Canary Islands could reach between 15 and 40 liters per square meter.
Impacts and Safety Concerns
The ongoing storm has prompted concerns about potential disruptions to travel, including ferry services and air traffic. Authorities are advising residents to exercise caution, particularly in coastal areas, and to avoid unnecessary travel. The risk of landslides, coastal flooding, and falling trees or branches remains elevated. The strong winds and high waves pose a significant hazard to maritime activities, and beachgoers are urged to stay away from the coastline.
The storm’s influence may extend to the southern Iberian Peninsula, where increased cloud cover and occasional showers are expected. Though, precipitation in this region is generally expected to be light and scattered, with the possibility of more intense showers and thunderstorms along the coast.
Presa de Las Hoyas in Gran Canaria shows the effects of the recent rainfall from Storm Therese.
What to Expect Next
While Storm Therese is losing intensity, the Canary Islands are expected to remain under the influence of unsettled weather throughout Sunday. A gradual improvement is forecast later in the day, with clearing skies expected in several areas. However, residents should remain vigilant and stay informed about the latest weather updates from AEMET. The potential for lingering effects, such as coastal swells and localized showers, will likely continue into the early part of the week.
Stay tuned to Archyde.com for further updates on Storm Therese and its impact on the Canary Islands. Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below.
