LANZAROTE HEATWAVE CONTINUES AS AEMET YELLOW TEMPERATURE ALERT REMAINS IN PLACE
Lanzarote is continuing to experience a spell of unusually hot September weather, with high temperatures expected to persist across the island as the latest AEMET forecasts keep Lanzarote among the Canary Islands areas affected by yellow-level heat warnings.
For tourists arriving in Lanzarote and residents living on the island, the message is simple: summer has not quite finished yet.
TODAY'S WEATHER: HOT AND SUNNY
AEMET's latest forecast shows very warm conditions across Lanzarote today, Thursday 24 September. In the Puerto del Carmen/Tías area, the forecast for Matagorda reaches around 35°C, with clear skies and a UV index of 8. Sea temperatures are around 28°C.
AEMET's Arrecife forecast also shows clear conditions and temperatures around 31°C during the morning, with the island remaining under a heat warning area.
The wider Canary Islands are also experiencing elevated temperatures. Spain's national weather agency has yellow heat warnings in place today in several Canary Islands, including Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. AEMET's yellow level indicates a low level of danger overall, but vulnerable people and anyone exposed to the heat for long periods can still be affected.
WHY IS LANZAROTE SO HOT?
The current episode is linked to a warm air mass arriving from Africa. The Government of the Canary Islands said the spell was expected to intensify and spread across the archipelago, with the eastern islands particularly affected.
Calima has also been present at times. Dust in the air can reduce visibility and, during hot weather, can make conditions feel more uncomfortable.
The combination of strong sunshine, high temperatures and warm nights is particularly important for people who are not accustomed to Lanzarote's climate.
HOW LONG WILL THE HEAT LAST?
The latest local forecasts suggest that the hottest conditions should gradually ease after today rather than disappearing suddenly.
For Matagorda, AEMET currently forecasts a maximum of around 32°C on Friday 25 September and around 30°C on Saturday 26 September. Skies are expected to become cloudier from Friday, although conditions will remain warm.
That means visitors should still expect plenty of sunshine and beach-friendly weather, even as temperatures begin to move away from today's peak.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR TOURISTS?
If you are visiting Lanzarote this week, the beaches and swimming pools may look particularly inviting, but the strongest sunshine occurs around the middle of the day.
A few simple precautions can make a big difference:
• Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.
• Use high-factor sun protection and reapply it regularly.
• Take breaks from direct sunlight, especially around the hottest part of the day.
• Wear lightweight clothing, a hat and sunglasses.
• Be particularly careful with babies, children and older people.
• Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest hours.
• Never leave children, older people or pets inside a parked vehicle.
• If you are heading out for a hike or volcano walk, check the latest weather conditions first and carry plenty of water.
LIFE ON LANZAROTE DURING A HEATWAVE
For residents, the combination of hot days and warmer nights can be more tiring than a typical summer spell. Keeping rooms shaded during the hottest part of the day, drinking regularly and using fans or air conditioning where available can help.
Those with health conditions or taking medication should follow advice from their healthcare professional if they are concerned about how extreme heat may affect them.
A REMINDER FOR EVERYONE ON THE ISLAND
AEMET's yellow warning does not mean that normal life has to stop. It is a reminder to stay aware of the conditions and take sensible precautions, particularly if you are spending long periods outdoors.
With Lanzarote's beaches, restaurants, attractions and outdoor activities continuing to welcome visitors, there is still plenty to enjoy. Just remember that September sunshine can be every bit as powerful as the summer heat that Lanzarote is famous for.
The situation can change quickly, so tourists and residents should check the latest AEMET forecast and official Canary Islands emergency information before making plans.
