Severe weather from Storm Dorothea has wreaked havoc across the Canary Islands, particularly on the islands of Tenerife and El Hierro. Emergency Services Coordination Centre (CECOES) has reported close to 100 incidents linked to the storm.
Despite the storm’s intensity, there have been no injuries or vehicle damage. However, powerful winds have caused widespread disruption, leading AENA to caution travelers about potential flight delays and cancellations. The majority of emergencies involve road blockages due to landslides and debris propelled onto roadways by gusty winds. In light of these challenges, the regional government has declared a state of “maximum alert” to ensure public safety.
Additionally, the storm has negatively impacted air travel. AENA strongly advises passengers leaving from Tenerife and nearby islands to verify their flight statuses, as disruptions are likely to continue. In response to the extreme weather, the regional Ministry of Education and Sports has suspended all school activities, including both academic and extracurricular programs, in El Hierro, La Gomera, and Tenerife.
Wind gusts are expected to reach as high as 120 km/h, resembling hurricane conditions. Reports from the south of Tenerife describe various incidents, including a fallen lamppost in Callao Salvaje. In La Laguna, officials have recorded numerous disturbances, such as a toppled lifeguard hut, a demolished fence at a construction site, and a uprooted tree along a major route.
Storm Dorothea Unleashes Chaos: What You Need to Know
Overview of Storm Dorothea’s Impact
The recent Storm Dorothea has significantly disrupted life across the Canary Islands, with the most substantial effects felt on Tenerife and El Hierro. Meteorological reports highlight the severe conditions, including winds reaching up to 120 km/h, which have created challenges for residents and travelers alike.
Key Developments and Alerts
The Emergency Services Coordination Centre (CECOES) reported nearly 100 incidents related to the storm, primarily comprising road blockages caused by landslides and debris. Fortunately, there have not been any injuries or notable vehicle damage, but the storm’s consequences have necessitated a state of “maximum alert” declared by the regional government to prioritize public safety.
# Travel Advisories
Due to the storm, AENA, the Spanish airport authority, has urged travelers to check their flight status, as significant delays and cancellations are anticipated. This advisory is crucial for those departing from Tenerife and nearby islands, emphasizing the need for passengers to stay informed.
School and Community Impact
In response to the extreme weather conditions, the regional Ministry of Education and Sports has decided to suspend all school activities, including academic sessions and sports, across affected areas like El Hierro, La Gomera, and Tenerife. This precautionary measure aims to safeguard children and educators during the ongoing weather crisis.
Specific Incidents Reported
Incidents from the storm paint a vivid picture of the chaos. In Callao Salvaje, a lamppost has fallen, while La Laguna reported various disturbances, including the destruction of a lifeguard hut, a demolished construction site fence, and uprooted trees along key routes. These sightings underline the urgent need for public vigilance as the storm continues to affect everyday life.
Safety Tips During Extreme Weather
1. Stay Informed: Regularly check weather updates and official announcements from local authorities.
2. Travel Cautiously: If you must travel, prioritize safety and consider postponing your plans until weather conditions improve.
3. Prepare Your Home: Secure loose objects outside your home and check for any potential hazards.
4. Avoid Flooded Areas: Stay away from rivers or coastal regions known for flooding during storms.
Looking Ahead: Predictions and Recovery
As the storm progresses, local authorities are monitoring conditions to provide timely updates and support for recovery. The Canary Islands have faced severe weather events before, which have resulted in community resilience and improved emergency response protocols.
Conclusion
The effects of Storm Dorothea are far-reaching, impacting travel, education, and community safety in the Canary Islands. Remaining informed and adhering to safety guidelines is critical in navigating this challenging situation. For more information on weather-related updates and safety precautions, visit the [Government of the Canary Islands official site](https://www.gobiernodecanarias.org).
