Popular among British tourists for its sunny climate, a holiday destination has been unexpectedly hit by snow just days before the Easter break.
The Canary Islands faced an orange weather alert following days of heavy rain and strong winds, with forecasts indicating the inclement weather is likely to persist for another five days, potentially disrupting travelers’ plans.
Startling scenes from Tenerife captured the usually sun-soaked island blanketed in snow, with icicles forming in various locations. Surprised visitors recorded the snowy landscape at the Teide National Park, where some roads had to be closed due to the unexpected snowfall.
Anticipated snowfall is predicted to continue in elevated areas above 1,800-2,000 meters. The islands have been battered by Storm Therese, causing significant rainfall, flash floods, and landslides in certain regions.
Warnings for extreme weather conditions, including storms, floods, high winds, heavy rainfall, and high waves, were issued for the Canary Islands on Wednesday.
In some areas, wind gusts have surpassed 74 miles per hour, with the usual warm sunshine Brits expect nowhere in sight for the coming days.
The adverse weather conditions led to travel disruptions, with at least seven flights to the Canary Islands canceled or diverted on Thursday, following 36 cancellations on Wednesday.
Friday is expected to bring worsening conditions, potentially marking the most severe phase of Storm Therese. Orange rain alerts have been issued for Tenerife, El Hierro, La Palma, and La Gomera, as reported by Canarian Weekly.
Up to 11mm of rain could fall within 12 hours in the holiday destination, with an amber rain warning in effect for Gran Canaria, expecting 80mm of rain. Hazardous sea conditions are forecasted between Tenerife and Gran Canaria, with waves reaching up to six meters and wind speeds up to force eight.
The storm is projected to slightly ease on Saturday, but disruptions are still anticipated. Orange rain alerts remain active for La Palma and Tenerife, with wind gusts up to 55 miles per hour expected to persist.
Both tourists and locals are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather conditions, exercise caution around coastal and mountainous areas, and adhere to guidance from local authorities. The inclement weather has necessitated the closure of schools on the Canary Islands until conditions improve.
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