British holidaymakers heading to Tenerife are being urged to stay alert as severe weather moves in this week.
The Spanish destination is set to feel the effects of Storm Therese, with conditions expected to persist through Sunday March 22.
Officials triggered the Island Emergency Plan at 3pm on Wednesday March 18.
This prompted extensive shutdowns, limitations and the cancellation of open-air events throughout the island.
Tenerife President Rosa Dávila confirmed that the emergency response framework was deployed at 3pm on Wednesday to brace for an incoming spell of harsh weather that will impact the island in the coming days.
Locals and visitors have been told to steer clear of non-essential travel and exercise heightened caution on the roads.
Furthermore, people should keep out of cordoned-off or restricted zones and ensure any outdoor belongings that could be lifted by wind are properly fastened.
Officials have stated that all emergency responders remain on alert and prepared to take action as circumstances evolve.
What weather alerts have been issued for Tenerife?
Aemet, Spain’s state weather service, has indicated that the Canary Islands as a whole will face a period of adverse weather through the remainder of this week.
Starting from Thursday March 19, wind speeds are anticipated to surpass 55mph across the higher ground, intermediate elevations and windward slopes of the islands.
Intense rainfall is forecast throughout the weekend, together with the possibility of thunderstorms and hail.
Powerful wind gusts are also predicted for Saturday March 21 before conditions ease on Sunday March 22.
Could flights to Tenerife be affected?
It remains unclear at present whether the storm will result in cancellations of services to Tenerife and other Canary Islands, though postponements cannot be excluded.
Canarian Weekly reported that 26 flights were called off on Wednesday March 18, with seven others redirected.
The majority involved regional flights between islands, though some incoming international services were also disrupted.
As an illustration, a service bound for La Palma Airport from Madrid was rerouted to Tenerife South.
Officials caution that the situation continues to develop as Storm Therese batters the islands, with biting winds and torrential rain generating perilous conditions for aircraft.
Travellers are being urged to verify arrangements with their carriers prior to departure and build in additional journey time when making their way to the airport.