December 16th 2024.
The Canary Islands, a popular British tourist destination, experienced severe weather conditions over the weekend. The islands, including Tenerife, El Hierro, and La Gomera, were hit by strong winds of up to 80mph, causing widespread damage and chaos. Emergency services reported over 300 incidents caused by the extreme winds, including fallen trees, damaged buildings, and debris flying around.
One particularly alarming incident involved a porta-loo being lifted off the ground and crashing into two police cars. These strong winds were brought about by Storm Dorothea, which brought powerful winds from the south and southeast. In response to the dangerous conditions, the islands' government raised the alert level to 'maximum' in some areas, urging both tourists and locals to remain vigilant and not let their guard down.
The Spanish State Meteorological Agency issued a red warning for El Hierro and amber alerts for Tenerife and La Gomera. Other popular destinations like Gran Canaria and Lanzarote were given yellow alerts for wind speeds of up to 40mph. AEMET, the Spanish Meteorological Agency, also issued a warning of 'significant danger' on their social media page, with wind gusts of over 130km/h being observed.
Residents and tourists in the Canary Islands were advised to secure loose objects, avoid outdoor activities, and keep emergency contact numbers on hand. This is a reminder that despite the beautiful beaches and sunny weather, strong winds can still pose a threat to those living or vacationing in the islands. The Canary Islands are a top choice for holidaymakers, with around 5.8 million Brits visiting Tenerife alone in 2022. Gran Canaria was a close second, with 3.8 million visitors that year.
After a difficult autumn and early winter in the UK, many Britons are longing to escape to the Canary Islands for a sunny holiday. The UK has been hit by multiple storms, including Ashley, Bert, Connell, and Darragh, causing damage, flooding, and even loss of life. Storm Darragh, which hit just a few weeks ago, left thousands without electricity and caused damage to properties. In one tragic incident, nine cows were killed in Cornwall when a power cable was blown onto them. Three people also lost their lives over the weekend of Storm Darragh, including a beloved football coach.
It serves as a reminder that despite the appeal of a sunny getaway, Mother Nature can be unpredictable and dangerous. The Canary Islands, with their warm climate and stunning landscapes, are a top choice for many British holidaymakers, and it's no surprise that millions flock there every year. Let's hope for better weather in the future and that everyone stays safe during their travels.
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