Snow characteristics, distribution and disappearance in a subtropical volcano (Teide, Canary Islands)

Abstract. An analysis is carried out of the snow characteristics, distribution and disappearance on a subtropical volcano. Teide (28° 16′ N–16° 38′ W), is a stratovolcano with the highest altitude in Spanish territory at 3718 m a.s.l. It is characterized by an arid climate, with only 12.7 days of snow per year and very clear skies during most of the year. The snow cover is rarely continuous even during the cold season. In addition, the particular geothermal conditions of its ground, the layout of the lava flows from the crater, and not only its subtropical latitudinal position, are responsible for its special snow distribution and ablation processes, such as the banded and radial snow pattern, the hollows in the base layer of the snowpack and snow penitents. These features create a unique snow cover within the high mountain environments.