Storm Olivier Brings Unstable Weather to the Canary Islands and Beyond
The State Meteorological Agency AEMET has released a report predicting significant weather developments over the coming days, largely influenced by the impactful storm Olivier, which has been affecting the Canary Islands since Wednesday. This storm, expected to reach the Peninsula on Friday, is causing notable instability, primarily in the Canary Islands.
As of Thursday, April 10, an extensive cold low pressure system named Olivier, centered north of the Canary Islands, is inducing unstable weather across the archipelago. AEMET warns that heavy or very heavy rain showers are anticipated, particularly in the western islands, which may be accompanied by storms. Winds are expected to be fierce, with strong gusts coming from the southwest, especially in Tenerife, La Palma, and El Hierro. On the other hand, the weather will be milder in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
In the Peninsula and Balearic Islands, high-pressure weather patterns will largely continue, although isolated showers might occur in the northern regions and along the western coasts of Andalusia. While temperatures are still above average, a decrease is expected in the Balearic Islands and the eastern half of the Peninsula.
The weekend looks poised for instability as the storm approaches. On Friday and Saturday, the presence of Olivier will likely lead to an increase in instability across much of the Peninsula, with showers and potentially strong storms forecasted, especially in the western sections. A continued drop in temperatures is expected, and strong winds are anticipated around the Strait and Alboran Sea. Although rain in the Canary Islands will persist, it is anticipated to be less intense than earlier in the week.
On Sunday and Monday, meteorological activity will focus on the northern and southeastern parts of the Peninsula, with westerly or southwesterly winds continuing. Daytime temperatures are projected to keep declining, aligning more closely with seasonal averages.
Looking ahead to the following week, AEMET predicts further rain in the northwestern Peninsula between Tuesday and Friday, accompanied by another drop in temperatures. However, starting Thursday, April 17, the forecast suggests a general reduction in instability and an uptick in temperatures, although rain is still expected in the northwestern third of the Peninsula. For the Canary Islands, trade winds are expected to dominate, with no significant rainfall anticipated.
As Holy Week approaches, there remains cautious optimism for improved conditions following the storm's passage.
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