Terrifying scenes have unfolded on the Spanish island of Lanzarote as a state of emergency was declared following severe flooding. The Canary Islands, a popular destination for tourists, experienced a catastrophic two-hour downpour that led to homes and cars being submerged in floodwater. Local authorities in Lanzarote were prompted to declare a state of emergency as the streets turned into perilous rivers, with cars left abandoned and residents facing challenges due to the stench of raw sewage. The sudden storm caught many off guard, particularly in the town of Arrecife on the island’s south coast, where the drainage system struggled to cope with the deluge.
According to reports from the Manchester Evening News, some areas received an astonishing 60 litres of water per square metre during the intense rainfall, exceeding the average monthly rainfall in the UK. To address the aftermath of the flooding, repairs are underway, but the duration of these efforts remains uncertain. The adverse weather conditions were not confined to Lanzarote alone, as the Canary Islands government issued a pre-alert for rain in other islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Fuerteventura. As a precautionary measure, the public was advised against unnecessary travel, affecting the plans of many holidaymakers.
The impact of the flooding extended to various towns on Lanzarote, with Guatiza, Tahiche, Costa Teguise, and Nazaret witnessing severe inundation as rivers breached their banks. Distressing videos circulating online depict bins floating along flooded streets, with cars almost entirely submerged in the surging waters. This natural disaster comes shortly after Storm Oliver passed over Lanzarote, disrupting flights and causing cancellations and diversions at multiple airports, including Gatwick, Manchester, Bristol, Dublin, Birmingham, Bournemouth, and Stansted. These consecutive events have led to a state of emergency on the island, urging tourists to reconsider their travel plans and seek alternative accommodation and flights.
In response to the unfolding situation, the UK Foreign Office has issued a warning for British travellers intending to visit Lanzarote, highlighting the disruptions in services, power outages in several hotels, and the obstruction of roads by mud. The collective efforts to restore normalcy on the island are ongoing, with authorities and residents grappling with the aftermath of the devastating floods. As the cleanup and repairs progress, the resilience and unity of the community in Lanzarote are being put to the test. This challenging period serves as a reminder of the unpredictable forces of nature and the importance of preparedness and solidarity in times of crisis.
The resilience displayed by the residents and local authorities in Lanzarote amidst the recent flooding serves as a testament to the strength of the community in the face of adversity. As the island navigates through the aftermath of the devastating natural disaster, the unwavering support and cooperation of individuals and organisations are crucial in the recovery process. The repercussions of the flooding extend beyond physical damages, emphasising the resilience and unity required to overcome such challenges. Adverse weather events like the torrential rain in Lanzarote underscore the significance of proactive measures and preparedness in safeguarding communities against unforeseen disasters. Through collective efforts and a spirit of solidarity, the people of Lanzarote are working together to rebuild and recover from the recent flooding, demonstrating their ability to overcome adversity and emerge stronger as a community.