Canary Islands Brace for Another Day of Intense Heat
The Canary Islands are facing sweltering conditions today, 8 July, with weather warnings in effect across the entire archipelago. According to the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), all islands are under yellow alerts for high temperatures, while Gran Canaria has a more serious orange warning due to the risk of extreme heat.
Temperatures are set to soar, especially in inland areas and on south-facing slopes. Aemet forecasts a significant rise in heat, particularly in Gran Canaria’s southern midlands, where temperatures could reach up to 37°C. Other inland areas of the islands may see highs of around 34°C.
Gran Canaria is the most affected island, with intense heat expected throughout the day, especially away from coastal regions. The forecast indicates that some areas may experience temperatures nearing 40°C.
In Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, the heat will also be felt strongly in inland and southern regions. Similarly, in Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma, and El Hierro, high temperatures are expected in higher altitude areas, particularly on south-facing slopes.
While coastal zones, especially in the north, will be slightly cooler, temperatures are generally anticipated to exceed 30°C to 33°C throughout the islands. In the southeast, areas in the interior and on slopes could experience highs above 34°C.
Aemet predicts mostly clear skies but with light haze at higher altitudes. Low cloud cover may occur at elevations below 300 to 500 metres on the northern sides of the mountainous islands.
The heat will continue into the night, with minimum temperatures staying above 25°C to 27°C, making for uncomfortable warm nights that could impact vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with existing health issues.
In the provincial capitals, temperatures are expected to reach a maximum of 26°C in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and 32°C in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, with both cities having minimums around 23°C.
Wind conditions will be light to moderate from the north along coastal areas, with stronger gusts possible on eastern and western slopes. Aemet advises residents and visitors to limit sun exposure during peak hours, stay well hydrated, and heed local authorities’ guidance, particularly in areas under heat warnings or fire risk restrictions.
