UK Tourists Tenerife Emergency as Storm Therese Hits

What observers say

“Starting today at 3pm, the island emergency response system is put into operation to prepare for an episode of adverse weather that will affect Tenerife over the coming days,” stated Rosa Dávila, a local government official, as the island braces for the impact of Storm Therese.

An emergency has been declared on Tenerife due to the storm, which is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including wind gusts predicted to reach 60 mph and heavy rainfall that could accumulate to 11 inches in some areas. The Island Emergency Plan (PEIN) was activated at 3pm on March 18, marking a significant response to the impending weather crisis.

Authorities have urged both residents and the approximately 2.8 million UK tourists who visit Tenerife annually to avoid unnecessary journeys and secure loose outdoor items. All outdoor events have been cancelled until further notice, and Teide National Park has been closed due to expected snowfall above 1,800 metres.

Flight operations have also been severely affected, with 26 flights cancelled and 7 diverted on March 18 as airlines respond to the worsening conditions. The storm is anticipated to last until March 22, leaving many travelers in uncertainty about their plans.

As the storm progresses, officials continue to monitor the situation closely. “Residents and tourists have been advised to avoid unnecessary journeys and take extra care while driving,” a spokesperson for the local authorities stated, emphasizing the need for caution.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding potential further flight cancellations beyond March 18, as the situation remains fluid with Storm Therese continuing to affect the islands. Travelers are advised to stay updated with their airlines and local news for the latest information.

With the storm’s impact, Tenerife faces a challenging period ahead, and the local government is committed to ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors during this emergency.