The Canary Islands experienced an extraordinary day of heat on Friday, 19 September, as temperatures reached historic highs. The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) confirmed that the all-time September record was surpassed when San Bartolomé de Tirajana (Gran Canaria) registered 41ºC at 2:30 p.m.. Almost simultaneously, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria reported 39.9ºC at 2:10 p.m., illustrating the severity of the heatwave.
A Heatwave Intensified by Calima
The extreme heat was accompanied by intense calima, with suspended dust diminishing visibility and exacerbating the oppressive weather conditions. Although peak temperatures were recorded on Friday, Aemet stated that this episode will begin to gradually ease from Saturday onwards. However, the relief will be relative, with temperatures remaining well above seasonal norms.
Forecasts for Saturday predict highs of 34ºC in several areas, with peaks expected to reach 33ºC in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and 30ºC in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Night-time temperatures will also remain unusually high, with minimums of 25ºC and 24ºC respectively, providing little respite after sunset.
Warnings and Preventive Measures
The Aemet warnings for high temperatures and suspended dust will remain in effect across Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Tenerife. The agency does not rule out maximum temperatures of up to 36ºC in certain inland areas.
The exceptional heat led the Canary Islands’ Department of Education to authorise seven schools in Tenerife to close earlier than usual on Friday, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of pupils and staff.
Wind and Atmospheric Conditions
The wind is expected to blow predominantly from the north, with moderate to occasionally strong gusts affecting various parts of the archipelago. In other areas, breezes will be lighter, mainly from the east and northeast, which may extend the presence of suspended dust.
A Sign of a Warmer September Trend
This event adds to the growing evidence that September in the Canary Islands is becoming increasingly warm. With the new 41ºC record, September now clearly illustrates the broader trend of extreme temperatures in the archipelago, underscoring the islands’ vulnerability to climate change and raising concerns over the impact of recurrent heatwaves on daily life, health, and the environment.
