The Canary Islands, a popular holiday destination, have been hit by a combination of severe weather events, including torrential rains, devastating floods, and even unexpected snowfall. Gran Canaria, in particular, has been heavily impacted, with streets turning into rivers and dramatic rescues unfolding.
Gran Canaria Under Water
Telde, one of Gran Canaria's main cities, experienced extreme rainfall that caused rivers and streams to overflow. The resulting floods turned streets into raging rivers, washing away cars and endangering residents. One particularly harrowing incident involved a woman being rescued from her car moments before it was completely submerged. A video of the rescue, originally reported by Il Fatto Quotidiano, has been circulating online, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with floodwaters reaching unprecedented levels. "There is a car in the sea," one local resident exclaimed, reflecting the widespread damage and disruption caused by the storm. According to reports, Gran Canaria experienced a staggering 32 liters of rain per square meter in just one hour, overwhelming the island's infrastructure.
Widespread Weather Alerts
While Gran Canaria bore the brunt of the flooding, other islands in the archipelago were also affected. Tenerife and Lanzarote were placed under weather alerts as a precaution, anticipating similar conditions. The combination of heavy rain and strong winds created hazardous conditions across the Canary Islands.
Unexpected Snowfall
Adding to the unusual weather patterns, the Canary Islands also experienced snowfall in some areas following the severe flooding. This unexpected turn of events further disrupted travel and daily life for residents and tourists alike. While the Canary Islands are known for their pleasant climate, these recent events serve as a reminder of the power of extreme weather.
The authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and provide assistance to those affected. The combination of flooding and snow has created significant challenges, requiring a coordinated response to ensure the safety and well-being of the population. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing vulnerability of regions to extreme weather events.