Canary Islands Under ‘Do Not Travel’ Warning as Storm Laurence Set to Batter Popular Holiday Destination – Travel And Tour World

The Canary Islands were placed under a pre-alert status for strong winds by the General Directorate of Emergencies, starting on March 19 at 8:00 AM GMT (9:00 AM local time). The warning was issued in anticipation of Storm Lawrench, which was expected to pass north of the islands, bringing powerful gusts of wind and potentially dangerous weather conditions. The authorities urged residents and tourists alike to avoid unnecessary travel and to be cautious when venturing out, particularly in areas prone to hazardous road conditions.

Impact on Key Areas and Municipalities

The storm’s effects were expected to be particularly severe in specific areas of the islands. Moderate westerly winds with strong gusts of up to 44 mph (70 kph) were anticipated in the highlands, mountainous regions, and mid-altitude areas of La Palma, El Hierro, La Gomera, and the northern coastal areas of Tenerife. Municipalities such as Adeje, Arona, Vilaflor, San Miguel de Abona, Granadilla, Arico, and Fasnia were also expected to experience significant wind activity, with the potential to affect daily life and travel.

As the day progressed, these strong gusts were expected to extend to other regions of the archipelago, including Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura, known for their popularity with tourists. The government highlighted the potential risks to property and personal safety due to flying debris and other objects dislodged by the high winds.

Public Safety Guidelines for Tourists and Residents

Authorities emphasized the importance of following safety protocols to reduce risks associated with the storm. Among the essential measures were securing objects such as plant pots and furniture on balconies, terraces, and rooftops, as these items could be blown away by the powerful winds. Tourists and locals were advised to stay indoors as much as possible, especially in the affected regions.

In case of emergencies, both residents and visitors were instructed to call the emergency number, 112, to provide immediate details of any incidents, ensuring that appropriate emergency services could be dispatched promptly. These measures aimed to minimize injury and damage, ensuring that both tourists and residents could stay safe during the storm’s impact.

Lifting of Coastal Flooding Alert

The authorities also lifted a coastal flooding alert, which had been in effect the previous evening due to the high waves expected to reach promenades, bathing areas, and coastal roads during high tides. The weather conditions had improved, reducing the risk of coastal flooding and allowing the alert to be called off. This shift in weather provided a brief respite for coastal areas, but the winds were still a significant concern, especially as they spread across the region.

Comparing Storm Lawrench to Recent Weather Events

This storm came just a week after Storm Konrad, which had already caused disruptions in the Canary Islands. The earlier storm had prompted the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) to issue yellow weather warnings due to the possibility of heavy rainfall, with predictions of up to 15 liters per square meter in one hour and 40 liters over a 12-hour period across several mainland regions. This storm had caused significant weather-related disturbances on the Costa del Sol, Guadalhorce Valley, Axarquía, and Ronda.

In addition, Majorca, part of the Balearic Islands, was facing similar weather challenges, with a significant downpour expected to last into April. The rainfall in Spain during the first nine days of March had already surpassed the typical amount seen throughout the entire month, adding to the increasing concerns over the ongoing weather patterns.

Implications for Travel and Tourism

The repeated storms over the course of March, including Storm Lawrench and Storm Konrad, highlight the vulnerability of tourism in Spain, particularly in popular regions like the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands, during this time of year. For tourists, especially those planning to visit holiday destinations in the Canary Islands, it’s important to remain informed about the evolving weather conditions, as strong winds and rainstorms can affect travel plans, potentially leading to delays and interruptions in services.

This series of storms also underscores the importance of staying updated on weather alerts and travel advisories before and during trips. Travelers should consider purchasing travel insurance to protect themselves against unexpected disruptions, especially in regions prone to inclement weather.

Global Effects on Tourism

As global travel resumes after the disruptions of the past years, the frequency of weather-related disturbances is becoming an increasingly important consideration for travelers and the tourism industry. The Canary Islands’ recent storms demonstrate how severe weather can disrupt not only local infrastructure but also international travel, as flights may be delayed or canceled, and certain regions may become temporarily inaccessible.

Tourism boards and airlines will need to continue adapting to the growing uncertainties brought on by unpredictable weather patterns. In such instances, having a clear communication strategy in place will be crucial to minimizing inconvenience for travelers and ensuring their safety.

Storm Lawrench is just one of several extreme weather events impacting Spain this March, underscoring the importance of preparing for unpredictable travel disruptions and staying informed. Tourists visiting regions such as the Canary Islands should prioritize safety, and local authorities are providing valuable guidelines to ensure that both residents and visitors remain secure during this challenging period.