The rainfall impacting Canary Islands has compelled the authorities to reschedule events of the Carnival in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The local government has opted to delay both the Infanti choreographic festival and the Body Makeup Contest, which were planned for this Sunday, in response to the weather alert issued by the Government of the Canary Islands.
The State Meteorology Agency (Aemet) has issued a warning regarding a period of widespread rainfall that will affect the islands for several days. The formation of a low-pressure system is anticipated, which will bring persistent rain at least until Wednesday, 5 March.
A yellow warning is currently in effect across Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro, with forecasts indicating accumulations of up to 15 litres per square metre within an hour. This scenario may potentially recur on Monday, further complicating The Carnival celebrations.
Recent heavy rains have resulted in numerous landslides along the GC-60, particularly between Degollada de la Mare and Artenara. Authorities urge utmost caution for motorists navigating the area due to the presence of rocks and mud on the roads.
Temperature readings this morning
Early this morning, ROQUE DE LOS MUDOS in Tenerife recorded the lowest temperature in the Canary Islands at -0.7°C at 03:40 hours, according to data from the State Meteorology Agency (Aemet). Other elevated areas of the island also reported negative temperatures, such as La Orotaba – Cañadas del Teide with -0.5°C at 01:20 and Izaña which dropped to -0.5°C at 04:40.
In Gran Canaria, Vega de San Mateo recorded 2.2°C at 02:50, while at Cruz de Tejeda, the temperature reached 4.4°C at 03:00.
Weather Forecast: Rain and Potential Snow
The AEMET forecasts locally heavy showers for this Sunday across the five mountainous islands, with significant impacts on the coasts during the night.
On Monday, the eve of the Carnival holiday, a similar pattern is expected, featuring moderate rainfall and potential thunderstorms and hail in the western islands. Additionally, the summit of Tenerife may see snowfall at elevations between 2,200 and 2,400 metres.
Maximum rainfall this Saturday / The province
Shrove Tuesday will be characterised by light to moderate rainfall, particularly in the mountainous regions. By midday, rain will also reach Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, albeit with less intensity.
Temperatures are expected to remain stable or see a slight decline.
On Wednesday, rainfall will continue, although the likelihood of intense downpours will diminish, possibly providing a reprieve for celebrations. Carnival participants are advised to stay informed about weather developments.
Effects on Carnival and Precautionary Measures
The rains have already led to alterations in the festival schedule. In Tenerife, the Cabildo has restricted access to Teide, while Gran Canaria is under pre-alert for possible incidents.
Precipitation is set to continue affecting the archipelago until Thursday, although with reduced intensity from Tuesday onwards. Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution and stay alert for forthcoming weather updates.
