Spain: Adverse weather forecast across the central and western Canary Islands through at least Nov. 19

Severe weather is forecast across parts of the Canary Islands through at least Nov. 19. Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected across central and western islands over the coming days. Strong winds, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages. As of Nov. 18, the State Meteorological Agency (Agencia Estatal de Meteorologia, AEMET) has issued orange heavy rainfall (the middle level on a three-tier scale) and yellow thunderstorm warnings for La Palma Island Nov. 18-19. Yellow heavy rainfall warnings are in place for parts of Gran Canaria Nov. 18 and across El Hierro, La Gomera, and Tenerife islands Nov. 18-19. Officials could update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming hours and days.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks, disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible.

Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather may cause some delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Localized business disruptions are possible in areas impacted by severe weather; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.