Unusual Atlantic Depression Heads for the Archipelago
A deep depression has formed in the last few hours to the west of Madeira and, according to European forecast models (ECMWF), will directly affect the Canary Islands in the coming days as it moves southeast. The Andorran meteorological service has already named the system Samuel, following the official list of names for such weather phenomena.
A Storm of Record-Breaking Proportions
From the moment it formed, Samuel has been breaking records, as noted by weather expert David Campos. He explained on social media that Samuel presents a record-low minimum pressure for the time of year and latitude, a record low geopotential height, and is record-breaking in terms of the size and area it will cover (the Azores, Madeira, and the Canaries). Campos added another singularity: “It is not typical to have a deep, isolated low-pressure system of these dimensions for a month of March.”
What to Expect from Storm Samuel
Therefore, according to experts, we are facing a depression with unusual characteristics that, based on forecasts, will begin on Wednesday and last at least until Saturday. It will bring rain that could be thundery, strong winds, snow, and coastal phenomena. Meteorologist Mario Picazo has confirmed that the Canary Islands will be the region most affected by Samuel.
According to his forecast on eltiempo.es, westerly winds are expected to strengthen across all islands from Wednesday, though the western islands will initially feel it most. Gusts are expected to easily exceed 100 kilometres per hour, accompanied by very large waves and generally dangerous maritime conditions, particularly along northern coasts.
A Stronger Impact Than Recent Storm Regina
The Canary Islands are, therefore, on the brink of a new storm that promises to be stronger than the one experienced just days ago, Storm Regina. That earlier system caused rainwater to rush through ravines and create waterfalls again, wind triggered dozens of incidents, and the peaks of Tenerife and Gran Canaria were once again covered in white.
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