Aemet warns of cooler temperatures in the Canary Islands in the coming days

Spain’s state weather agency, Aemet, has warned of a significant change in weather patterns affecting the Canary Islands, with a noticeable drop in temperatures and a more unsettled outlook heading towards Christmas.

According to medium- and long-range forecasts based on the European weather model, conditions during the week of 22 to 28 December could be more unstable than is typical for the time of year. Although these scenarios are still subject to change, current maps suggest the arrival of colder air masses and a higher frequency of rainfall across the archipelago.

Temperatures are expected to fall between one and three degrees below average, bringing a cooler-than-usual feel to the festive period. Rainfall could also be above normal in some areas, particularly on the islands with higher relief, where persistent precipitation may occur.

After two storms in the past two months, meteorologists stress that there is no confirmation of an extreme weather episode at this stage. However, they do anticipate a less stable Christmas than usual. Experts urge caution, noting that the final outcome will depend on how high- and low-pressure systems position themselves in the coming days, making it essential to follow updated forecasts.

Weekend outlook

For this Friday and throughout the weekend, rain is expected to return, mainly affecting mid-altitude areas and inland zones, with precipitation ranging from light to moderate. Maximum temperatures will dip slightly, while conditions are forecast to remain largely unchanged through Sunday and Monday.

Northeasterly winds will dominate, with strong intervals expected on southeast and northwest slopes, where occasional very strong gusts cannot be ruled out. On the southwest coasts of the mountainous islands, sea breezes will prevail. Winds will turn more northerly on Sunday afternoon and moderate from the north on Monday, easing later in the day in the western province.

Island-by-island forecast for Friday

Lanzarote and Fuerteventura

Cloudy intervals to overcast skies with a chance of light, scattered and occasional rain. Temperatures will see little change. Light northerly winds will turn northeast and strengthen towards the end of the day.
Expected temperatures:

• Arrecife: 16–21°C
• Puerto del Rosario: 16–22°C

Gran Canaria

Partly cloudy, becoming mostly cloudy in the afternoon. Occasional light rain is expected in the north, locally moderate and persistent in mid-altitude areas and exposed summits. Temperatures will remain largely stable, with slight drops in minimums inland and small rises in maximums in northern midlands. Winds will be light from the north, strengthening later from the northeast, with possible very strong gusts in the northwest and southeast.

• Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 17–22°C

Tenerife

Cloudy intervals, turning mostly cloudy during the morning. Rain is expected in the north, especially early and late in the day, with occasional light showers possible elsewhere. Snow levels will be around 2,400–2,600 metres. Temperatures will remain steady, though cooler conditions are expected on central summits, where light frost is possible at higher elevations. Northerly winds will strengthen from the northeast later, with strong gusts possible on the southeast slopes and at high altitudes around Mount Teide.

• Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 17–23°C

La Gomera

Cloudy intervals with predominantly overcast skies in the north, where light, occasional rain is likely, especially early and late in the day. Rain may be locally moderate and persistent in northern midlands and exposed summits. Temperatures will show little variation.

• San Sebastián de La Gomera: 18–22°C

La Palma

Mostly clear skies, becoming cloudier during the morning. Occasional rain is expected in the north and east from midday, possibly moderate and persistent in mid-altitude and exposed high areas. Temperatures will remain stable, with slight drops on higher ground. Northerly winds will strengthen in the afternoon, with very strong gusts possible in the northwest and southern tip of the island.

• Santa Cruz de La Palma: 16–22°C

El Hierro

Cloudy intervals, becoming more overcast in the north later in the day. There is a chance of light rain in northern mid-altitude areas towards evening. Temperatures will remain largely unchanged, with northerly winds turning northeast and strengthening by the end of the day.