Heavy rainfall and flash floods have wreaked havoc on Gran Canaria, the third-largest island in the Canary archipelago, as streets were submerged, vehicles swept away, and major tourist beaches closed due to dangerous conditions. The severe weather, which began earlier this week, has prompted widespread travel disruptions, with authorities issuing urgent safety warnings for residents and visitors.

Orange Weather Warnings as Flooding Intensifies

The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has placed eastern, southern, and western Gran Canaria under an orange-level weather warning, signaling significant flood risks. Torrential rain has dumped up to 30mm of precipitation in just one hour, leaving parts of the island struggling with rising waters and landslides.

Meanwhile, other Canary Islands, including Tenerife, remain under a yellow alert, indicating persistent rainfall, gusty winds, and unpredictable sea conditions.

Carnival Disruptions as Storms Hit Popular Tourist Events

The storm has arrived at an unfortunate time, coinciding with the Canary Islands’ vibrant carnival season, a major tourism driver for the region.

Santa Cruz Carnival, one of the most famous events in Tenerife, was forced to suspend its scheduled performances on Monday afternoon, though evening festivities continued once conditions improved. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to determine whether upcoming parades and cultural events can proceed safely.

In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, where carnival celebrations attract thousands of visitors, heavy rains have forced road closures and beach shutdowns, raising concerns over further disruptions. Local officials are urging tourists to stay informed about changing weather conditions and potential cancellations.

Beaches Closed, Travel Disruptions Reported

Gran Canaria’s popular coastal areas, including Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, have been temporarily closed due to high surf and dangerous flooding. Local authorities have issued travel advisories, warning visitors to avoid low-lying areas and take precautions against sudden flash floods.

Tourists planning to visit affected regions should check with airlines and accommodations for potential cancellations or itinerary adjustments. While no major flight disruptions have been reported yet, authorities remain on high alert as the storm system continues to evolve.

Tourism Industry Braces for Weather Fallout

The Canary Islands, a major European winter sun destination, heavily rely on tourism. The storm-induced travel disruptions could impact visitor numbers, particularly as carnival season is one of the busiest times of the year.

Hotel operators and tourism officials are closely monitoring the situation, with many offering flexible booking policies to accommodate travelers affected by cancellations. Travel agencies are advising clients to stay updated on forecasts and consider travel insurance coverage for extreme weather-related disruptions.

Safety Measures and Emergency Response

Local emergency services have been mobilized to deal with flood-related incidents. Authorities urge residents and tourists to adhere to the following safety guidelines:

Avoid traveling through flood-prone areas or coastal zones.
Follow updates from local authorities and weather agencies.
Postpone non-essential outdoor activities until conditions improve.
Stay away from beachfront areas where strong waves and storm surges pose serious hazards.

More Rain Expected: What’s Next?

Meteorologists warn that the extreme weather is not over yet. While rainfall intensity may fluctuate, forecasts indicate continued wet conditions for Gran Canaria and surrounding islands in the coming days.

The orange warning remains in effect, with further storm activity anticipated, potentially causing additional flooding and disruptions. Travelers planning to visit the Canary Islands in the coming weeks should stay informed about ongoing weather alerts.

Final Thoughts: Stay Cautious, Stay Informed

As heavy rain continues to impact Gran Canaria and other Canary Islands, authorities are emphasizing safety first for both locals and tourists. With carnival celebrations, beach closures, and potential flight delays, visitors should monitor official weather updates and follow local guidelines to stay protected during extreme conditions.

With the tourism industry bracing for impacts, businesses are adapting to minimize disruptions, ensuring that visitors experience as little inconvenience as possible. However, as weather patterns become increasingly unpredictable, travelers to Spain’s island paradise should remain vigilant and plan accordingly.