Lanzarote Heatwave: Temperatures Hit 40°C as Cooler Weather Arrives
Lanzarote has experienced another spell of intense September heat, with temperatures reaching 40°C before a welcome drop is expected across the island.
Anyone who was out and about in Lanzarote on Tuesday will have noticed just how powerful the September sunshine felt. Temperatures soared across parts of the island, with the official AEMET weather station at Lanzarote Airport recording a maximum of 40.0°C during the afternoon.
Arrecife was also affected by the exceptional heat, reaching 37.7°C according to Spain's State Meteorological Agency.
For residents and visitors enjoying a Lanzarote holiday, it was the sort of day when a trip to the beach, a swim in the pool or a cold drink in the shade became particularly appealing.
A dramatic change from earlier September temperatures
The intensity of the heat was particularly noticeable because temperatures had been considerably lower just a few days earlier.At Lanzarote Airport, the maximum temperature on 6 September was 29.9°C before climbing to 34.4°C on Monday and then reaching 40°C on Tuesday.
That rapid rise produced some extremely hot conditions across the island, particularly in areas away from the cooling influence of the Atlantic.
The Canary Islands Government had already warned of an episode of unusually warm weather, with Lanzarote and Fuerteventura expected to be particularly affected in their southern areas. Officials also highlighted the possibility of very warm nights, with temperatures struggling to fall below the mid-20s in some locations.
Cooler weather arrives in Lanzarote
There is some good news for anyone who found the recent heat difficult to cope with.AEMET's latest forecast for Arrecife shows a significant reduction in daytime temperatures, with a maximum of around 31°C on Wednesday, followed by approximately 28°C on Thursday and 29°C on Friday.
Temperatures are then expected to remain around the high 20s and low 30s over the weekend, before another rise is currently forecast towards the beginning of next week.
So while Lanzarote weather in September is still very much beach-weather territory, the immediate conditions should feel considerably more comfortable than Tuesday's extreme heat.
What does this mean for tourists in Lanzarote?
For holidaymakers, slightly cooler temperatures will be welcome news, particularly for anyone planning to explore more of the island.
September is normally an excellent month for enjoying Lanzarote beaches, Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise, Arrecife and the island's outdoor attractions. However, during periods of extreme heat, it is worth adjusting your plans.
If you're hiring a car and exploring Lanzarote, consider travelling earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon rather than spending several hours outdoors during the hottest part of the day.
The same applies to walking routes and sightseeing. Lanzarote's volcanic landscapes can offer very little shade, and surfaces such as dark volcanic rock can feel considerably hotter than the air temperature suggests.
Take extra care in the Lanzarote sunshine
The recent weather is also a reminder that the island's sunshine can be deceptively strong.
Even when temperatures fall back into the high 20s or low 30s, visitors should continue to use sunscreen, drink plenty of water and take regular breaks from direct sunlight.
During particularly hot weather, strenuous exercise and long walks are best avoided around the middle of the day. Children, older people and anyone with existing health problems can be particularly vulnerable to high temperatures.
The emergency authorities have repeatedly advised people to stay hydrated, remain in cooler areas where possible and avoid unnecessary physical exertion during the hottest hours.
Lanzarote weather: what happens next?
For now, the forecast suggests that the most intense heat is easing.AEMET's latest outlook points towards lower temperatures in Lanzarote from Wednesday onwards, although warm and sunny conditions will continue. The forecast currently indicates another gradual increase towards the start of next week, with temperatures potentially reaching the low-to-mid 30s in Arrecife.
For residents, that means a welcome break from Tuesday's exceptional temperatures. For tourists, it means that the classic combination of Lanzarote sunshine, beaches and outdoor activities can continue, but with sensible precautions still advisable.
After hitting 40°C at Lanzarote Airport, the island is finally getting some relief from the September heat.
