Extreme storms like Hermine in the south of Gran Canaria and the DANA in Valencia challenge all limits

Tropical Storm Hermine , which struck the Canary Islands on September 24, 2022, left a record-breaking rainfall total in the archipelago. According to data from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), 102,4 liters per square meter accumulated in El Matorral, 94,8 in Tunte, and 58,2 in Playa del Inglés. This storm triggered, for the first time, all seven Island Emergency Plans (PEIN) and fifty-six Municipal Emergency Plans (PEMU) , reflecting the magnitude of the consequences. The intense rains caused road closures, rockfalls, fallen trees, and localized flooding, as well as flight cancellations, paralyzing several areas of the archipelago for several days.

 

 

In southeastern Gran Canaria, on March 23, 2024 ( see video ), an isolated high-altitude depression (DANA) triggered another alert situation. Accumulated rainfall reached nearly 40 liters per square meter in the mid-altitude and urban areas, causing vehicles to be swept away in the Pozo Izquierdo ravine and serious flooding in areas such as San Agustín beach. In some areas, the currents exceeded forecasts, affecting both urban and rural infrastructure. Landslides and hail accumulation were also reported, keeping rescue and road maintenance services on high alert.

 

 

Meanwhile, the recent DANA storm of October 29, 2024, in the Valencian Community presented a devastating scene, with rainfall exceeding 300 liters per square meter in just a few hours. The intense rains caused bridges to collapse and several sections of the river to overflow, resulting in massive flooding in residential and agricultural areas. The impact of this DANA storm left a trail of damage to essential infrastructure, affecting both the mobility and safety of residents.

 

 

These weather events highlight the impact of climate change in the Canary Islands and other vulnerable areas. If the archipelago were to experience rainfall of up to 500 liters per square meter , the result could be catastrophic, with irreparable damage to infrastructure and endangering the lives of its inhabitants.