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Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the NewsPrism weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
The Canary Islands enjoy a mild subtropical climate with year-round sunshine; coastal temperatures rarely fall below 20°C, though conditions vary by island and altitude.
The live forecast above shows current conditions across the archipelago. This stable climate makes the Canaries a reliable winter-sun destination, with the hottest months from June to September and a comfortable winter from December to February.
What is the weather like in the Canary Islands throughout the year?
Year-round, expect warm days and cool nights, moderated by trade winds. The southern coasts of each island are typically sunnier and drier than the north, where cloud and occasional drizzle are more common.
- Winter (December–February): daytime highs of 21–24°C, low rainfall, sea temperatures around 19°C.
- Spring (March–May): warming to 24–27°C, longer sunny spells, ideal for hiking.
- Summer (June–September): highs of 28–32°C, very dry, strong sun; calima (dust haze) can reduce visibility.
- Autumn (October–November): still warm at 25–27°C, with a slight increase in rain, especially on northern slopes.
- Canary Islands weather by month shows the greatest variation in December and January, when temperatures are mildest but still pleasant for outdoor activities.
Are there any weather warnings today for the Canary Islands?
The live forecast above includes any current canary islands weather warning today. Warnings are typically issued for strong winds, rough seas, or calima events affecting visibility and air quality.
- Calima warnings: Saharan dust can cause haze and respiratory irritation, particularly in summer.
- Wind warnings: Trade winds can strengthen locally, especially around channels between islands.
- Rainfall warnings: Rare but possible in winter, mainly on higher terrain of Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
What is the coldest month in the Canary Islands?
January is typically the coolest month, with average coastal highs of 21°C and lows around 15°C. Inland areas above 1,000m, such as Teide, can drop to near freezing, but this is not felt in the main tourist zones.
Does it rain a lot in the Canary Islands?
No – it is a semi-arid climate. The southern coasts receive very little rain (under 200mm annually), while the northern slopes can get 500–600mm, mainly between November and February. Most days are dry and sunny.
When is the best time to visit the Canary Islands?
For the most reliable sun, December to April offer warm days and minimal rain. If you prefer hotter weather, July to September are best but can be very crowded. Spring and autumn provide a good balance of warmth and fewer tourists.
Sources
For more detailed outlooks, visit our UK weather hub or check dedicated pages for Tenerife Weather and Lanzarote Weather. You can also explore a 10 Day Weather Forecast UK for comparison.