Canary Islands Under RED Alert as Storm Nuria Approaches with Hurricane-Force Winds
A Red alert has been issued for Tenerife and La Palma ahead of Storm Nuria, with hurricane-force winds expected. Tourists are cautioned to avoid these areas as schools will close on Thursday. Weather agency AEMET warns of extreme conditions, and the storm may lead to cooler temperatures and heavy rainfall across Spain.
A RED alert has been issued by the Canary Islands government for Tenerife and La Palma as Storm Nuria approaches with potential “hurricane-force” winds. Tourists have been advised to steer clear of these areas starting midnight tonight until Thursday, April 3, as extreme weather conditions are expected.
Wind gusts ranging from 68 to 81 miles per hour, and potentially even higher, along with perilous sea conditions are predicted to impact these regions significantly. The worst of the storm is likely to affect the western islands including Tenerife, La Palma, El Hierro, and La Gomera, while other islands may experience gusts between 43 and 62 miles per hour.
In preparation for the storm, schools in Tenerife, La Palma, and La Graciosa will close on Thursday. Normally, this time of year offers pleasant weather with average daily temperatures around 18°C, attracting many British tourists to the Canaries.
The Spanish weather agency, AEMET, announced the Red Notice, cautioning about the extraordinary danger posed by Storm Nuria. Authorities recommend that tourists secure their doors and windows to prevent damage from the winds.
As the fourteenth significant storm of the season, Nuria is expected not only to affect the Canary Islands but to bring cooler temperatures, rain, and strong winds across much of Spain. Other areas, including Galicia, the Balearic Islands, and the Cantabrian mountain range, are under yellow warnings for heavy rainfall.
This storm follows a distressing event last month when the Canary Islands suffered severe flooding in Gran Canaria due to torrential rains, causing extensive destruction and prompting occupants to stay indoors in an effort to ensure safety. Disturbing images emerged from that incident, showing vehicles swept away in floods and streets inundated with mud and debris.
In summary, the Canary Islands government has declared a Red alert due to imminent dangerous weather conditions from Storm Nuria, which is expected to bring hurricane-force winds and heavy rain. Tourists are advised to avoid the affected areas as schools are set to close and precautionary measures are implemented. This storm comes on the heels of a previous flooding incident in the region, highlighting the need for safety and preparation in adverse weather circumstances.
Original Source: www.thesun.co.uk
