Canary Islands Weather Chaos: Storm Therese and the Future of Extreme Tourism
The recent disruption to travel in the Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife and La Palma, caused by Storm Therese highlights a growing trend: the increasing impact of extreme weather events on tourism. Holidaymakers are facing cancelled flights, closed roads and a general sense of uncertainty as an unusual combination of torrential rain, high winds, and even snow blankets the islands. This isn’t an isolated incident, and it signals a need to reassess how we approach travel in a world grappling with climate change.
The Immediate Impact: Tenerife Under Strain
As of March 22, 2026, Storm Therese continues to batter the Canary Islands. Orange weather warnings are in place for northern Tenerife and parts of La Palma, with wind gusts reaching up to 100 km/h. All seven islands are under yellow warnings for rain, thunderstorms, and rough seas. The storm has already led to over 300 reported incidents, with the majority occurring in Tenerife and Las Palmas. Tenerife South Airport has experienced significant disruption, with travellers reporting long queues and flight delays. Many tourists have expressed their frustration and are choosing to cancel or postpone their trips.
Beyond Therese: A Pattern of Disruption
Storm Therese is not an anomaly. The Portuguese weather service named the storm earlier this week due to the initial risk of disruption in Madeira and the Azores, demonstrating a heightened awareness of potential weather-related travel issues. This proactive naming and warning system is becoming increasingly common as meteorological agencies adapt to more frequent and intense weather events. The fact that significant snowfall has fallen on Mount Teide at this time of year is also unusual, further illustrating the changing climate patterns.
The Rise of “Climate-Conscious” Travel
The events in Tenerife are likely to accelerate a growing trend: climate-conscious travel. Tourists are becoming more aware of the environmental impact of their choices, and increasingly, the risks associated with travelling to destinations vulnerable to extreme weather. This awareness is driving demand for more sustainable and resilient tourism practices.
Resilient Infrastructure: A Key to Future Tourism
The vulnerability of Tenerife’s infrastructure – particularly its drainage systems, as highlighted by a local resident – underscores the need for investment in resilient infrastructure. Improved drainage, reinforced coastal defenses, and more robust transportation networks are crucial for mitigating the impact of future storms. This requires collaboration between local governments, tourism operators, and infrastructure developers.
Dynamic Risk Assessment and Travel Insurance
Travellers will increasingly rely on dynamic risk assessments and comprehensive travel insurance. Real-time weather data, coupled with sophisticated risk modelling, can help individuals make informed decisions about their travel plans. Travel insurance policies will need to adapt to cover disruptions caused by extreme weather events, including cancellations, delays, and evacuation costs.
The Role of Technology in Weather Preparedness
Technology is playing an increasingly important role in weather preparedness and response. Advanced weather forecasting models, early warning systems, and real-time communication platforms are essential for minimizing the impact of extreme weather events. The apply of social media, as demonstrated by the resident sharing updates from Tenerife, also provides valuable insights into local conditions.
FAQ: Storm Therese and Travel to the Canary Islands
- Is it safe to travel to Tenerife right now? Travel is currently disrupted. Check with your airline and local authorities for the latest updates.
- What is the current status of flights to Tenerife? Over 40 flights were cancelled or diverted by March 20, 2026. Check Flightradar24 or your airline for current status.
- What weather warnings are in place? Orange warnings are in effect for northern Tenerife and parts of La Palma for high winds. Yellow warnings are in place across all islands for rain and rough seas.
- How long is the lousy weather expected to last? The worst of the weather is expected to ease by Monday, March 23, but some warnings will remain in force.
Pro Tip: Before travelling to any destination, check the local weather forecast and be prepared for potential disruptions. Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers extreme weather events.
The situation in Tenerife serves as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change to the tourism industry. Adapting to these challenges will require a concerted effort from governments, businesses, and travellers alike. The future of tourism depends on building a more resilient and sustainable industry that can withstand the impacts of an increasingly unpredictable climate.
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