High Fire Risk Across Canary Islands
The Canaries are facing heightened fire risk due to rising temperatures, low humidity, and conducive weather conditions for fire spread. As a result, authorities have implemented a range of preventive measures across many islands, including closures of forest tracks, recreational areas, and restricted access to natural spaces that affect dozens of municipalities.
The fire alert was activated by the Canary Islands Government on Thursday, 30 July. The warning covers Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro, while Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are exempt due to their unique forest characteristics.
Tenerife Under Close Watch
In Tenerife, all 31 municipalities are under restrictions due to links to forest areas like Anaga and Teno. The alert includes northern towns such as Garachico and La Orotava, as well as southern locations like Adeje and Granadilla.
Gran Canaria’s Alert Zones
Gran Canaria’s alert starts at 400 metres above sea level, affecting municipalities with significant forest areas, excluding Las Palmas, which is primarily coastal. Areas like Tejeda and Agaete are included in the restrictions.
La Gomera Focuses on Protection
All six municipalities on La Gomera, due to their connection to the Garajonay National Park, remain under heightened scrutiny. These include San Sebastián and Alajeró.
Strict Measures on El Hierro
El Hierro has some of the strictest measures, closing numerous forest access points, particularly in El Pinar. This includes prohibiting access along specific roads and trails.
La Palma’s Attention on Cumbre Vieja
La Palma is also on alert, focusing on large forests in the Cumbre Vieja region. The restrictions impact fourteen municipalities, particularly in southern and central areas.
Prohibitions During Alert Period
To mitigate fire risks, all islands have imposed a ban on fires in recreational areas, barbecues, and access to various forest tracks and natural spaces. Authorities stress that many large wildfires stem from human negligence.
Duration of the Alert
The alert will remain in effect indefinitely until the General Directorate of Emergencies declares it over. Current extreme temperatures are expected to persist over the weekend, with health authorities warning of high ultraviolet (UV) radiation risk, advising people to limit sun exposure.
In summary, due to the prevailing conditions, citizens are urged to remain vigilant and adhere strictly to the imposed restrictions to prevent potential wildfires.
