IslaBuWhat do the weather warnings mean in the Canary Islands?
Warnings are issued by AEMET, the state meteorological agency, at three levels: yellow, orange and red. In addition, the Government of the Canary Islands declares its own alert levels. During a warning for coastal events, keep away from the sea.
AEMET levels
Yellow: the risk to everyday life is low, but some outdoor activities may be dangerous. Orange: significant risk; the phenomena are unusual and may endanger everyday activities. Red: extreme risk; phenomena of exceptional intensity.
What warnings are issued for
In the Canary Islands, most often for coastal events (high waves), wind, rain, high temperatures and airborne dust during calima.
Levels of the Government of the Canary Islands
Depending on the forecast, the Gobierno de Canarias declares prealerta (pre-alert), alerta (alert) and alerta máxima (maximum alert); in an actual emergency, the state of emergencia. They usually apply to a whole island or part of it.
What to do during a coastal warning
Do not go onto piers, breakwaters or rock platforms or into natural pools, and do not photograph the waves up close – a big wave comes without warning. Swim only where the lifeguards allow it. In an emergency, call 112.
Warnings in IslaBu
We always show the warnings in force at the top and link to the authority that issued them. Our score never overrides an official warning.
Sources: AEMET – Agencia Estatal de Meteorología · Gobierno de Canarias · Updated October 4, 2026