Strong winds persist across Canary Islands as skies gradually clear
The Canary Islands are experiencing a day of mixed weather this Thursday, March 26, as strong winds remain the dominant feature despite improving sky conditions in several areas, according to Spain’s Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET).
While atmospheric stability is beginning to return, particularly on the southern slopes of the larger islands, intense trade winds continue to sweep across the archipelago, shaping both land and sea conditions.
Very strong wind gusts expected
The most significant weather factor today is the wind. Forecasts indicate moderate northerly to northeasterly winds, with strong intervals in exposed areas. AEMET warns that very strong gusts may occur հատկապես in the northwest and southeast extremes of the mountainous islands, as well as inland areas of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
These conditions are also affecting the sea, where winds of force 4 to 5 are expected, occasionally reaching force 6 in channels between islands. This will generate rough seas and a northerly swell, with waves ranging from 1 to 2 meters. Authorities advise caution along northern coastlines.
Clouds retreat, but northern showers persist
Although cloud cover is gradually decreasing, northern parts of the islands will still see lingering moisture and occasional light rainfall. The so-called “panza de burro” cloud layer remains present, especially in mid-altitude areas.
Island-by-island outlook
Tenerife and Gran Canaria
In Tenerife, cloudy skies and light rain are expected in the north and northeast, while the rest of the island will see clearer conditions, especially in the south. Some cloud development may occur later in the day. Temperatures in Santa Cruz are expected to reach around 22°C, while light frost is possible at higher elevations such as Mount Teide.
On Gran Canaria, northern areas may experience a slight drop in daytime temperatures along with a higher chance of light rain in mid-altitude zones. Strongest winds are forecast for the eastern and western slopes. In Las Palmas, temperatures will peak near 21°C.
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura
In the eastern islands of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, skies will be mostly cloudy in the morning with a low chance of light rain. Conditions will improve in the afternoon, particularly in southern and eastern areas. Winds may be especially disruptive inland and in exposed zones like Jandía.
La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro
Across the western islands — La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro — cloudy skies and occasional light rain will persist in the north and east, with clearer conditions elsewhere. Slight temperature increases are expected in higher areas of La Palma, while strong winds will be felt in southern and western parts of El Hierro.
Temperatures remain stable
Overall, temperatures will see little change, with minimums ranging between 17°C and 18°C in provincial capitals. However, strong winds may make it feel cooler in exposed areas.
This weather pattern is typical for late March, when strengthened trade winds dominate ahead of more stable spring conditions. Forecast models suggest similar conditions will persist through the end of the week.
Residents and visitors are advised to take precautions against strong winds, particularly in coastal and high-altitude areas.
