Chaos in the Canary Islands as ‘worst storm for years’ barrels in

WorldEnvironment
26 Mar 2026 • 1:19 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • The Canary Islands have declared a state of emergency following torrential rains and flooding caused by Storm Therese, described as the region's worst storm in a decade.
  • The military has been deployed to assist with the chaos, and neighbourhoods like Los Perez and El Hornillo in Agaete were evacuated due to fears of a reservoir bursting.
  • A rare red alert for life-threatening weather was issued, with officials noting "historic circumstances" due to over 700 litres of water per square metre falling across six days.
  • Emergency services have recorded approximately 1,500 incidents across the archipelago, including a collapsed hotel roof and roads, while an elderly man was rescued from flooding.
  • Dozens of flights, including those from London, Manchester, and Newcastle, have been cancelled or diverted, and tourists have been advised to remain in their hotels.

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