Canary Islands Declare State of Emergency Amid 'Historic' Storm Therese
The Canary Islands have been plunged into chaos as Storm Therese, described as the worst storm to hit the region in a decade, unleashes torrential rains, severe flooding, and evacuations. Authorities have declared a state of emergency across the archipelago, deploying military units to assist with the life-threatening conditions.
Unprecedented Rainfall and Evacuations
Local officials report that the islands are facing "historic circumstances" due to the volume of rainfall, with over 700 litres of water per square metre recorded across six days. This has led to the evacuation of entire neighbourhoods, including Los Perez and El Hornillo in Agaete, over fears that a nearby reservoir could burst. Antonio Morales, president of the Island Council, emphasised the severity at a press conference, stating the impact on the island territory is unprecedented.
Widespread Damage and Emergency Response
Emergency services have recorded approximately 300 incidents on Gran Canaria alone on Tuesday, with over 1,500 reported across all seven islands. Damage includes collapsed hotel roofs and roads, while winds of up to 100kph are expected. A rare red alert was issued, warning that the weather poses a threat to life, with mobile phone alerts sent to residents and tourists.
Rescue Operations and Ongoing Alerts
Rescue teams have been active, saving an elderly man from a flooded home in Barranco Hando after he showed signs of distress. The Military Emergency Unit has been mobilised, with over 14 million cubic metres of water dumped into Gran Canaria's reservoirs. Rosa Dávila, president of the island council, noted that a phenomenon of this magnitude has not been seen for over 13 years.
Weather alerts remain in place, with yellow alerts for La Gomera, El Hierro, and Tenerife, and an orange alert for rainfall in La Palma. University classes in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and La Laguna have been cancelled through Wednesday, compounding disruptions from last week's snow and severe winds.
Technical director Federico Grillo remarked that "no one anywhere on the planet could have foreseen something like this," highlighting the extraordinary nature of Storm Therese's impact on the Canary Islands.
