SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE 14 December (EUROPA PRESS) –
The General Directorate of Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands has elevated the status from ‘alert’ to ‘maximum alert’ regarding wind conditions on the islands of La Gomera, El Hierro, and the northern and western regions of Tenerife.
Additionally, in La Palma and within the Tenerife municipalities of Arona, Vilaflor, San Miguel de Abona, Granadilla de Abona, Arico, Fasnia, Güímar, Arafo, Candelaria, El Rosario, and Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the ‘alert’ status remains in effect; while Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote continue under ‘pre-alert’.
As detailed by the regional administration in an announcement, this measure was taken based on forecasts from AEMET and other reliable sources, in accordance with the Canary Islands Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Risks (PEFMA).
Consequently, strong winds from the south and southeast are anticipated, with average speeds of 40-70 km/h across the western islands, primarily affecting the northern and western slopes, the midlands, high ground, and summits.
Very strong and locally hurricane-force gusts are also expected, with speeds reaching or exceeding 80-120 km/h; however, areas with lighter winds and gusts will include the southeastern coastlines of El Hierro, La Palma, and La Gomera.
Moderate southeast winds (20-40 km/h) will dominate the eastern islands, intensifying to strong winds (41-60 km/h) in the western and northern slopes. Very intense gusts are likely, potentially reaching or surpassing 60-80 km/h, and in some areas, gusts may equal or exceed 90 km/h.
Finally, the Government of the Canary Islands has indicated that the most severe wind gusts are expected to commence from dawn on Sunday.
