Olivier targets southern Gran Canaria: up to 30 mm of rain, strong winds, and rough seas

 

Following the declaration of a pre-alert for storms with a risk of flooding in San Bartolomé de Tirajana, the Fire and Rescue Service, along with other municipal teams, has intensified its inspection of pipelines, bridges, storm drains, and pumping systems installed in strategic areas.

 

By virtue of legal powers and in accordance with the Municipal Emergency Plan of San Bartolomé de Tirajana:  Emergency Plan Order

 

FIRST: Suspension of outdoor activities: All outdoor activities are prohibited throughout the municipality.

 

SECOND: Closure of municipal parks: All municipal parks will remain closed to the public during the alert phase, in order to avoid risk situations arising from wind, rain or storms.

 

THIRD: Establishment of a municipal shelter: A municipal shelter will be set up for people in emergency or vulnerable situations, located at the San Fernando de Maspalomas Skating Rink (Avda. de Tunte No. 18), operating from 19:00 p.m. on April 9, 2025. Food, shelter, basic care and necessary means will be guaranteed during the alert period.

 

 

 

Storm Olivier began to leave its mark on the Canary Islands this Wednesday, with a moderate but significant impact in the south of Gran Canaria. According to the forecast from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), rainfall could reach 30 millimeters during the early hours of Thursday, affecting municipalities such as San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Mogán, and the southeast of the island.

 

Although other islands are under orange warning for rain and wind, Gran Canaria remains under yellow warning. AEMET has reported that the phenomenon will develop in two phases: the first affecting Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, and a second with greater impact on the western islands. However, Gran Canaria will be affected by both, especially its southwest side.

 

Local experts such as MeteoSW have warned that the impact on southwestern Gran Canaria may be greater than expected, warning of areas at high risk of flooding and vulnerable population density that should remain vigilant. Models such as ECMWF, ICON-D, and GFS predict an active front with heavy rains that could occur within a few hours.

 

 

 

Temperatures will range between 9 and 22 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds of up to 45 km/h. Sea conditions will be very rough, with significant swells along the entire southern coast, especially in Maspalomas and Mogán, where waves of between 4 and 5 meters are expected, making all maritime activities inadvisable.

 

The public is advised to follow AEMET updates and heed official warnings, as weather conditions could change throughout Thursday.