Tenerife Declares Maximum Emergency as Storm Therese Triggers Red Alert
The Canary Island of Tenerife has escalated its emergency response to the highest possible level, declaring a maximum emergency in response to the severe threat posed by Storm Therese. This critical situation has prompted authorities to issue a Red Alert across the island, with urgent warnings being broadcast directly to all mobile phones, including those of UK tourists and holidaymakers currently visiting the popular destination.
Immediate Warnings and Safety Measures
At 8.45pm on Tuesday, the island's emergency plan was officially upgraded to maximum status. Island President Rosa Dávila emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "We are facing a changing situation, with a storm that maintains an unstable behaviour. Our priority is to anticipate and protect the public." The alert system has been activated to ensure that every phone on Tenerife receives emergency notifications, urging residents and tourists alike to take immediate precautions.
Civil Protection Chief Néstor Padrón issued a stark warning about the potential dangers, highlighting that "these situations can generate problems in no time." He stressed the importance of reducing exposure to risk, as conditions could deteriorate rapidly and turn deadly within seconds. Authorities are strongly advising against all non-essential travel and recommending that people stay indoors and monitor local updates closely.
Impact on the Canary Islands and Tourist Guidance
The effects of Storm Therese are not confined to Tenerife alone. The wider Canary Islands archipelago has been severely impacted, with reports of evacuations, significant travel disruptions, and hundreds of weather-related incidents. In Tenerife, dramatic footage has emerged showing torrential floodwaters surging through Plaza del Charco in Puerto de la Cruz, while images depict people hastily clearing tables at a flooded restaurant in the Canaries.
For UK tourists and residents on the island, officials are providing specific safety guidance:
- Avoid ravines and coastal areas, which are particularly hazardous during the storm.
- Steer clear of any closed roads or paths, as they may be unsafe or impassable.
- Adhere strictly to all local safety instructions and emergency alerts.
- Limit outdoor activities and travel only when absolutely necessary.
Federico Grillo, Technical Director of Emergency Services for the island council, noted the unpredictability of the storm, remarking that "no one anywhere on the planet could have foreseen something like this." This sudden and dangerous turn in Storm Therese's path has caught many by surprise, underscoring the need for heightened vigilance.
Ongoing Situation and Future Outlook
While weather forecasts indicate that conditions may begin to ease later in the week, the situation remains highly volatile. The Canarian Weekly reports that caution is strongly advised, as the storm's behavior continues to be unstable. Tourists are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and to prioritize their safety above all else.
The island's government, known as the Cabildo, has reiterated its call for both residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary travel and to prepare for possible worsening conditions. As Storm Therese continues to pose a significant threat, the focus remains on public protection and minimizing risks across Tenerife and the surrounding Canary Islands.
