The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has issued a yellow warning for Lanzarote and La Graciosa for the fourth consecutive day on Saturday, 20 September, due to high temperatures and the presence of dust clouds. The forecast includes intervals of medium and high clouds, alongside an atmosphere made hazy by suspended dust, which will reduce visibility to around 3,000 metres.
This phenomenon continues to impact the whole of the Canary Islands, with temperatures expected to reach up to 34 degrees in Lanzarote (yet again), particularly in the southern half of the island. Aemet does not rule out the possibility of temperatures hitting as high as 37 degrees in some areas. This heat and dust episode will remain active from 11:00 to 20:00 hours on Saturday.
The wind will blow from the north, with strong intervals expected on the southern slopes of Lanzarote, potentially intensifying the thermal sensation during the peak hours. The forecast also indicates a slight to moderate decrease in temperatures, more noticeable in the maximums, as the afternoon progresses and the dust cloud dissipates.
This situation is not exclusive to Lanzarote. Other islands in the archipelago, such as Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and La Palma, have also issued heat warnings, with recorded temperatures reaching up to 36 degrees in the peaks and the eastern, southern, and western slopes.
Recommended Precautions
The General Directorate of Security and Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands emphasises the importance of taking extra precautions during these episodes. Preventive measures include avoiding prolonged sun exposure during peak hours, staying hydrated, paying special attention to children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses, and reducing intense physical activity.
The dust cloud is expected to begin diminishing by late afternoon, and an improvement in conditions is anticipated for Sunday, when temperatures are expected to moderate across the archipelago.
