Intense Alisio Winds and Weather Forecast for the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are set to experience an intense day of alisio winds this Sunday, according to the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet). Residents and visitors alike should prepare for some noteworthy weather changes as the northeast winds gain strength, particularly affecting the southeastern slopes.
Wind Conditions
On Sunday, the winds will be blowing from the northeast with considerable force, reaching levels of 5 to 6 on the Beaufort Scale in the ocean. The intensity will escalate to force 7 in the southeastern slopes of the islands, creating areas of strong swell that can lead to rough seas. Moreover, there will be a background swell originating from the north or northeast, with waves potentially reaching up to two meters in height. This is vital information for sailors and anyone planning activities near the coast.
Cloud Cover and Rain Potential
As for the skies, clouds will dominate the northern slopes of the mountainous islands, making for a varied landscape. There is a possibility of light drizzles early in the morning, particularly in the median areas, which may offer a refreshing start to the day. Residents in these regions should be mindful of slippery conditions.
On the other hand, the light haze—known as calima—present at higher altitudes will gradually diminish throughout the day, particularly in eastern provinces, contributing to clearer skies later on.
Temperature Trends
Interestingly, while temperatures will drop in the higher elevations and median areas, we can still expect warm weather in the lower regions. The thermometer is predicted to reach or even approach 30 ºC in the lower southeastern parts of Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, and the Güímar-Candelaria area in Tenerife. This juxtaposition in temperatures highlights the unique microclimates that the islands are famous for.
Island-by-Island Weather Breakdown
To better prepare for the day’s conditions, here’s how the weather is shaping up across the different islands:
Tenerife (Santa Cruz: 23 ºC / 29 ºC)
- Expect cloudy skies in the northern region and clearer conditions in the southern parts. Temperatures will hover around 30 ºC in Candelaria and the Güímar Valley. Winds will be strong, particularly in the southeast and northwest areas.
La Gomera (San Sebastián: 23 ºC / 27 ºC)
- The northern section will see cloud coverage, while the southern part remains mostly clear. Intense winds will impact the eastern and northwestern slopes, especially during the early morning hours.
La Palma (Santa Cruz: 22 ºC / 24 ºC)
- Expect intervals of clouds in the north and east, with morning drizzles possible in the northeastern median areas. Winds will also be pronounced, particularly along the exposed ends.
El Hierro (Valverde: 17 ºC / 20 ºC)
- Cloud cover is expected in the northern and eastern sections during the morning, giving way to clearer conditions later. Strong alisio winds will buffet the coastal regions, especially in the southeast and northwest.
Lanzarote (Arrecife: 22 ºC / 29 ºC)
- The day will begin with somewhat clear skies but expect some light haze due to the calima present at higher levels. Winds will be strong in the interior and southern areas, with particularly intense gusts likely during the early morning.
Fuerteventura (Puerto del Rosario: 22 ºC / 27 ºC)
- The weather is looking clear with occasional brief clouds, particularly in the west at the beginning and end of the day. Temperatures will head towards 30 ºC in the southeast, with very strong alisio winds expected in Jandía.
Gran Canaria (Las Palmas: 23 ºC / 26 ºC)
- Clouds will gather in the northern region, making it likely for morning drizzles, while the midday sunshine will bring some clearing. Maximum temperatures are anticipated to reach 30 ºC in the southeast, with exceptionally strong gusts in the extreme northwestern and southeastern areas.
This detailed forecast equips you with the necessary insights to navigate the day ahead, regardless of whether you’re heading to the beach, hiking, or just enjoying the beautiful landscapes of the Canary Islands. Stay safe, and enjoy the diverse weather that Sunday brings!
