A powerful storm swept through the Canary Islands overnight: Storm Claudia brought torrential rain and gusty winds, leading to numerous incidents in Tenerife and Gran Canaria. In some areas of Gran Canaria, rainfall reached up to 80 liters per square meter, while in places on La Palma this figure exceeded 100 liters. As a result, emergency services received over a hundred calls related to flooding, landslides, and road accidents.
The severe weather persisted throughout the night and early morning. In the municipalities of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Icod de los Vinos, and Arona on Tenerife, as well as Mogán, San Bartolomé de Tirajana, and Agüimes on Gran Canaria, there were reports of flooded homes, collapsed embankments, and power outages. Five roads in Gran Canaria had to be closed due to landslides and rockfalls. In some areas, rivers overflowed, flooding streets and basements.
Strong winds caused damage to power lines and brought down trees. In Arrecife on Lanzarote, a woman was injured when a metal sheet ripped off by the wind struck her. For several hours, hundreds of lightning bolts flashed over the sea off the island’s west coast. Authorities decided to temporarily close the ports of Arrecife and Puerto del Rosario on Fuerteventura to ensure public safety.
The storm also reached mainland Spain
Claudia’s impact has also reached the western part of the Iberian Peninsula. Weather warnings have been issued in Galicia, Andalucía, Cantabria, Asturias, Castilla y León, and Extremadura for severe weather conditions. These regions are expecting heavy rainfall, gale-force winds, and thunderstorms. In some areas, wind speeds exceeded 100 km/h, especially on La Gomera, Tenerife, and El Hierro.
Residents and visitors to the islands are advised to exercise caution, avoid traveling on mountain roads, and stay away from waterfronts. Authorities are paying special attention to water levels in ravines and riverbeds to prevent flash flooding. Officials continue to monitor the situation and are ready to respond quickly to new developments.
Consequences and forecast
Forecasters warn that adverse weather will persist throughout the day—and in some areas, even longer. More rain and stronger winds are expected, which could cause further disruptions to transport and public services. Conditions will remain tense over the next 24 hours, with emergency services operating at full capacity.
