In response, the Canary Islands' Directorate General of Emergencies has raised its alert level from 'alert' to 'maximum alert' due to severe winds impacting La Gomera, El Hierro, and the northern and western regions of Tenerife.
At the heart of this weather pattern is Storm Dorothea, which has brought not only intense winds but also severe thunderstorms, resulting in a barrage of electrical activity across the islands.
The storm is also triggering hazardous weather, including gale-force winds with gusts ranging from 80 to 120 km/h. While the most sheltered areas, such as the southeastern coasts of El Hierro, La Palma, and La Gomera, may experience somewhat milder conditions, the rest of the islands remain exposed to potentially hurricane-level gusts.
In the eastern islands (Lanzarote and Fuerteventura), winds are expected to pick up strength significantly, with southeastern breezes increasing from moderate speeds to strong gales (41 - 60 km/h) along the western and northern slopes. Gusts could exceed 90 km/h in some localised areas, adding to the risks posed by the severe weather.
The Government of the Canary Islands has warned that the most intense winds are anticipated from the early hours of tomorrow morning (Sunday), advising residents and visitors to remain vigilant.
This follows recent declarations of forest fire alerts and the combined threats of high temperatures, calima (dust storms), and dry conditions that exacerbate the risk of wildfires.
Authorities urge the public to stay updated on weather reports and adhere to safety guidelines as the islands brace for further turbulence brought by Storm Dorothea.
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