THE CANARY Islands are facing huge storms and rain this week, which has even meant snow in places like Tenerife and La Palma.
Here’s what you need to know if you have a holiday booked there.
What is happening in the Canary Islands?
Storm Therese has left the Canary Islands in turmoil as weather warnings have remained in place for several days.
More snow is expected in Tenerife after the mountains in the Teide National Park were blanketed in white on Thursday.
As a result, more than 40 flights have been cancelled this week across the Canaries.
Orange and yellow alerts are in place across the islands, warning of heavy rain, storms, flooding and high waves.
Can I cancel my holiday?
If you want to cancel your upcoming holiday to the Canary Islands, you will be left out of pocket.
This is because the UK government still deems it safe to travel to Spain, so airlines and tour operators are under no obligation to refund you.
It is only when travel is warned against that it is likely your holiday will be cancelled and refunded.
Bad weather does not affect this.
And the weather warnings are expected to be lifted by the end of the week – so won’t affect the Easter holidays.
What if my flights are affected?
Compensation doesn’t apply here either – weather is seen as “out of the airline’s control”.
This means they do not have to offer any compensation if your flight is delayed by the weather.
They do, however, have a duty of care towards you, which includes hotels if the flight is delayed overnight, as well as food and drink vouchers.
The airline must put you on an alternative flight if yours is cancelled as well.
The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) states: “If your flight is cancelled, many airlines will provide vouchers for you to buy food and drink.
“If you require accommodation, they may book a hotel and arrange transportation for you.
“If you end up paying for things yourself, keep every receipt and do not spend more than is reasonable.”
If you accept a refund, their duty of care ends towards you and you will have to pay for your own hotels and return flight home.
