Authorities in Santa Cruz de Tenerife have activated the city’s emergency plan in anticipation of the arrival of Storm Therese, which is already bringing impacts to the Canary Islands. The plan, enacted via a decree from the council responsible for Security and Emergencies, goes into effect at 8:00 a.m. On Thursday, March 19, and includes the suspension of all outdoor activities.
The decision follows the declaration of a pre-alert status for potential landslides across five islands – La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria – due to the storm. The Canary Islands government’s emergency services have been evaluating potential risks and implementing preventative measures to protect people and property. This move underscores the seriousness of the approaching weather system.
Preventative efforts have focused on areas with large trees in parks and gardens, as well as outdoor public facilities. Certain spaces will be marked off and closed to the public to minimize potential hazards. The Parque Secundino Delgado has already been closed, and additional parks will be closed starting Thursday, including García Sanabria, Plaza San Francisco, Plaza del Príncipe, Leoncio Oramas (central area), La Estrella, Manuel Castañeda, El Timple, Las Mesas, Chimisay, La Granja, Don Quijote, Las Indias, Hupa Lupa, Palmetum, La Hoya, La Era, and La Cruz in Sobradillo.
City crews have too been working to clear storm drains in areas prone to flooding and inspecting ravines in preparation for anticipated rainfall. Municipal Civil Protection officials are in contact with all relevant public administrations and services to coordinate a response to any incidents that may arise. They are closely monitoring weather forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) and any active alerts.
Attention is also being paid to beaches, bathing areas, and the coastline, as well as the Anaga mountain range, due to strong winds and rough seas. The activation of the municipal emergency plan, as outlined in a decree signed by Councilor for Security Gladis de León, will suspend all outdoor activities organized by the Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council and close outdoor municipal facilities that are open to the public, including sports facilities and swimming pools. This closure includes Santa Cruz Gofit and Las Retamas facilities.
City officials stated that additional alerts, such as those for thunderstorms, may be issued, and measures and recommendations for the public will be updated accordingly. Residents are encouraged to clear storm drains and gutters as a preventative measure.
The emergency plan will remain in effect as long as alerts issued by the Canary Islands government remain in place. Residents are advised to follow safety recommendations, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay informed through official channels and news media.
Residents are also advised to secure doors, windows, and awnings to prevent damage from strong winds, and to remove any loose objects from balconies and rooftops that could fall and cause injury. They should also inspect their homes for any loose cornices, balconies, or facades. It is also recommended to stay away from coastal areas where waves are expected to increase.
Authorities are urging citizens to act responsibly and avoid putting themselves at risk.
In response to the approaching storm, the Canary Islands Regional Ministry of Education has announced that schools in Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Graciosa will be closed and switch to remote learning on Thursday, March 19. Remote learning will continue throughout the day on Friday, March 20, across the entire archipelago. This measure also applies to non-teaching staff.
The University of La Laguna has also announced a shift to online classes for Thursday.
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council recommends that residents stay tuned to official communication channels from the regional government and the Canary Islands government for any updates.
