Storm Nuria brings hurricane-force winds and heavy rain to the Canary Islands
The Spanish meteorological agency, Aemet, has updated its weather forecast for the Canary Islands, warning of extreme conditions due to Storm Nuria. The regional government has declared a maximum alert in Tenerife and La Palma as hurricane-force winds and heavy rainfall are set to impact the archipelago.
Red Alert for La Palma as Winds Reach 130 km/h
The Canary Islands are under a red alert, indicating extreme risk, as winds of up to 130 km/h batter the eastern region of La Palma. The storm is also bringing intense rainfall and rough seas to the archipelago. Meanwhile, seven other Spanish regions remain on yellow alert, signaling potential risks due to adverse weather conditions.
Storm Nuria is expected to cause particularly strong winds across the Canary Islands, with La Palma's eastern side experiencing the most severe conditions. Aemet forecasts that heavy rain will initially affect the islands before moving towards mainland Spain.
Orange Alert for other Canary Islands
Western La Palma, Gran Canaria, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Tenerife are under an orange alert, indicating a significant but lower level of risk than red alerts. These islands are expected to face wind gusts of up to 100 km/h and heavy rainfall, with precipitation levels reaching 20 liters per square meter in just one hour.
In addition to strong winds and rain, rough seas are forecast across the Canary Islands, with maritime winds between 50 and 61 km/h, occasionally reaching speeds of 74 km/h. Waves are expected to reach between 4 and 5 meters in height.
Storm Warnings Extend to Mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands
On the Spanish mainland, several regions are under yellow alerts for various weather threats. Castilla-La Mancha, Castilla y León, and Madrid are facing heavy rainfall, while Navarra and the Basque Country are under wind warnings.
Later in the day, the Balearic Islands will activate a yellow alert due to strong winds and rough seas, while the Valencian Community is also expected to experience turbulent maritime conditions. Inland areas such as the Madrid mountains, Guadalajara’s highlands, and Soria’s Ibérica region could see up to 40 liters of rain per square meter within 12 hours.
Coastal hazards are also a concern for Mallorca and Alicante’s shores, where waves between 2 and 3 meters are forecast.
With Storm Nuria bringing extreme weather to Spain, authorities urge residents to remain vigilant and follow official recommendations for safety.
