Tenerife, a popular destination for British holidaymakers seeking sunshine, has seen an unexpected turn as Storm Therese brought torrential rain and strong winds to the Canary Islands. The unusual weather has disrupted vacations, leading some tourists to cut their trips short and book early flights home. Reports and viral videos circulating on social media, particularly TikTok, paint a picture of disrupted travel plans and dampened spirits, highlighting the unpredictable nature of travel even in typically reliable climates.
The disruption comes as the islands grapple with one of the most severe storms in over a decade. While the Canary Islands are known for their mild climate, Storm Therese unleashed winds reaching 100 km/h (62 mph) and significant rainfall, even bringing snowfall to higher elevations. The unexpected conditions have prompted concern among travelers and raised questions about the resilience of tourism infrastructure in the face of increasingly volatile weather patterns.
Storm Therese: A Rare Weather Event for Tenerife
The recent storm is unusual for Tenerife, particularly in March. According to the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), the storm was characterized by a deep Atlantic low, bringing prolonged periods of heavy rainfall and strong winds to the archipelago. The AEMET issued warnings for both Tenerife and La Palma, anticipating significant disruption. The intensity of the storm prompted authorities to issue alerts for coastal areas, advising residents and tourists to exercise caution.
Social media has grow a key outlet for those experiencing the effects of the storm. A TikTok user known as “Gazza” posted a video documenting his experience, stating, “Come here every year and this is the first bad downpour experience.” He described the weather as “brutal” for four consecutive days. The video quickly gained traction, sparking a conversation among other travelers who shared similar experiences. Numerous comments detailed cancelled excursions, closed attractions and the general frustration of a holiday impacted by inclement weather.
Tourists Seek Early Departures
The impact of the storm extended beyond inconvenience, with some tourists opting to alter their travel plans. Comments on Gazza’s TikTok video revealed that several individuals had booked early flights home. “I was there last week and got an early flight home,” one user wrote. Another commented, “Was debating it too,” while a third simply stated, “I just got back. It was mental.” Reports also indicated widespread closures of businesses and attractions, further contributing to the disappointment of visitors.
However, experiences varied. Some tourists reported having a positive experience despite the weather. One TikTok user commented, “It’s heaven. Chill,” while another stated, “Here at the moment and not that bad. People need to chill out.” This highlights the localized nature of the storm’s impact and the differing perspectives of those affected.
Impact on Local Infrastructure and Services
Beyond the disruption to individual holidays, Storm Therese also impacted local infrastructure and services. Earlier in March, Tenerife Airport was briefly affected by the weather, leading to delays and cancellations, as reported by the Irish Mirror. While the airport has since returned to normal operations, the initial disruption underscored the vulnerability of transportation networks to extreme weather events. Local authorities worked to clear debris and restore essential services, but the storm’s impact was felt across the island.
Improving Conditions and Future Outlook
As of March 29, 2026, conditions in Tenerife are improving. Forecasts indicate sunny weather in the coming days, with temperatures potentially reaching 26 degrees Celsius. This shift in weather patterns offers a glimmer of hope for those still on the island and for future visitors. One recent traveler commented, “It’s sunny now,” while another added, “I’m just back yesterday. Was there for a week. We had a ball even with the storm and rain.”
The recent events serve as a reminder of the potential for unexpected weather disruptions, even in traditionally sunny destinations. Travelers to Tenerife, and other similar locations, are advised to stay informed about weather forecasts and to be prepared for potential changes to their travel plans. Checking the AEMET website for the latest updates is recommended before and during any trip to the Canary Islands.
Looking ahead, authorities are expected to continue monitoring weather patterns and implementing measures to mitigate the impact of future storms. The Canary Islands government has not yet released a formal assessment of the damage caused by Storm Therese, but a report is anticipated in the coming weeks. Travelers planning trips to Tenerife are encouraged to check for official updates from local authorities and airlines before their departure.
Have you been affected by the recent storms in Tenerife? Share your experience in the comments below, and please share this article with anyone planning a trip to the Canary Islands.
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