Lanzarote Heat Alert Extended
Lanzarote is staying firmly in summer mode this week, despite the arrival of astronomical autumn. AEMET has extended the yellow heat warning affecting Lanzarote through Thursday 24 September, with temperatures expected to remain unusually high for the time of year.
The latest forecasts point to a particularly warm spell across the island, with temperatures around the mid-30s in the hottest locations and locally higher readings possible, especially in inland and southern parts of Lanzarote.
For anyone living in Lanzarote or arriving for a holiday, the message is simple: it is still beach weather, but this is a week when the heat deserves a little more respect.
What is happening with the Lanzarote weather?
The current spell is linked to a mass of warm, dry air moving across the Canary Islands from Africa. The episode has brought higher temperatures to the eastern islands, including Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, while also bringing some dust in suspension.
The Government of the Canary Islands placed Lanzarote under a pre-alert for maximum temperatures from Tuesday 22 September. Its latest information says the warm conditions are expected to continue through Thursday, with weak calima possible, particularly in the eastern islands.
AEMET's current forecasts for Lanzarote show predominantly clear skies around the island. At El Reducto in Arrecife, for example, AEMET forecasts a maximum of about 33°C for Thursday, while its Guacimeta beach forecast in Tías puts Thursday's maximum at around 34°C. These are local forecasts, so temperatures can vary considerably from one part of Lanzarote to another.
Could Lanzarote reach 37°C?
Yes, locally.
The headline figure being discussed for this episode is around 37°C in the warmest parts of Lanzarote, particularly inland and towards the south. That does not mean the whole island will sit at 37°C. Coastal resorts can be several degrees different from hotter inland locations because of the influence of the Atlantic Ocean.
This is particularly important for tourists checking the weather in Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise or Arrecife. A forecast for one location should not automatically be treated as the temperature everywhere on the island.
Why does it feel so hot in September?
September is normally one of Lanzarote's warmest months, so high temperatures are not unusual. What makes this spell noticeable is the combination of strong sunshine, warm air, relatively dry conditions and the possibility of calima.
The sea can also make a difference. Coastal areas often benefit from the cooling influence of the Atlantic, while sheltered inland areas can heat up more quickly during the afternoon.
Calima may also affect visibility and air quality. When dust levels rise, the sky can look hazy rather than deep blue, and people who are sensitive to dust or who have respiratory problems may notice the difference.
Beach day? A few things to remember
For holidaymakers, there is no reason to avoid enjoying Lanzarote simply because temperatures are high, but it is worth changing the way you plan your day.
Try to avoid spending long periods in direct sunshine around the middle of the day. Take regular breaks in the shade, drink plenty of water and remember that swimming or sitting beside the pool does not prevent sun exposure.
Sun cream should be reapplied regularly, particularly after swimming. A hat, sunglasses and light clothing are also useful, especially if you are planning to explore away from your hotel or resort.
If you are hiring a car, never leave children, vulnerable people or pets inside a parked vehicle, even for a short period.
What about walking, cycling and excursions?
Lanzarote is brilliant for outdoor activities, but the heat can make familiar routes feel very different.
If you are walking in the volcanic landscape, visiting viewpoints, cycling, running or taking part in an organised excursion, take water with you and consider going earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Places such as Timanfaya and other exposed volcanic areas offer very little natural shade. The black volcanic landscape can also feel particularly intense under strong sunshine.
If you are travelling with children or older family members, build some quieter, cooler time into your itinerary rather than trying to fit everything into the hottest part of the day.
Will it cool down soon?
The current forecasts suggest that temperatures should begin easing from Friday 25 September, although Lanzarote is still expected to remain warm.
AEMET's forecast for Arrecife shows the temperature stepping down towards the end of the week, while beach forecasts for locations including El Reducto and Guacimeta also indicate a more moderate Friday.
As always with Lanzarote weather, conditions can vary between the coast, inland areas and different sides of the island. Weather warnings are updated as new forecast information becomes available, so visitors and residents should check the latest AEMET information rather than relying on an older forecast.
