Carnival and inclement weather go hand in hand. The Cabildo de Gran Canaria has activated the Insular Territorial Plan for Civil Protection Emergencies in PREALERT MODE from midday on Sunday, 2 March. This decision has been taken in response to the forecast of adverse weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, hail, and snow in higher regions of the island, as per the predictions of the State Meteorology Agency (Aemet).
The Canary Islands have issued PREALERT WARNINGS for rain and snowfall based on Aemet forecasts. Rainfall is anticipated to be light to moderate, with a potential for intense showers, thunderstorms, and frequent hail.
In the Cumbres de Gran Canaria, La Palma, and Tenerife, the snow level is set at 1,800 metres above sea level, which could lead to substantial accumulations.
Advice for Coping with Inclement Weather
The government of the Canary Islands urges residents to exercise extreme caution, particularly in areas impacted by heavy rain and snow. During this unstable period, it is recommended to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel on the roads.
- If driving, reduce speed, check brakes, and steer clear of flooded areas.
- Do not enter snowy regions without checking the status of the roads.
- Adhere to the signage and instructions from security personnel.
- If stranded in your vehicle due to snow, stay inside with the heating on and ventilate periodically.
Meteorological forecast for Sunday, 2 March / Meteored
Furthermore, it is advised to exercise caution during Carnival events as the rainfall may disrupt outdoor celebrations.
Meteorological Forecast by Island
Tenerife and La Palma
Overcast or cloudy with moderate rain, hail, and isolated thunderstorms. In the higher regions, precipitation may occur as snow.
- Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 15 °C – 21 °C.
- Santa Cruz de la Palma: 13 °C – 18 °C.
La Gomera and El Hierro
Moderate rainfall, with possible intense showers and isolated storms. Temperatures expected to slightly decrease.
- San Sebastián de la Gomera: 15 °C – 20 °C.
- Valverde: 11 °C – 16 °C.
Weather forecast for Monday, 3 March / Meteored
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura
Overcast skies with light rain, which may intensify inland. Temperatures expected to decrease slightly with light winds creating breezes.
- Reef: 13 °C – 21 °C.
- Puerto del Rosario: 14 °C – 20 °C.
Gran Canaria
Overcast skies with intense showers in inland and coastal regions at night. Possibility of snow at the summits. No significant changes in temperatures expected.
- Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 15 °C – 21 °C.
