Canary Islands Issue Emergency Heatwave Alerts Amid Saharan Dust Influx
Health authorities in the Canary Islands have implemented an emergency surveillance plan and issued multi-level heat alerts as a severe heatwave, compounded by Saharan dust, poses significant risks to public health.
The Canary Islands are currently experiencing a severe heatwave, prompting health authorities to launch an emergency surveillance plan. Working alongside the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), officials have set different alert levels across the islands based on the intensity of the heat and the potential risks to public health.
The highest alert, Level 3 (high risk), is currently in effect for Santa Cruz de Tenerife, El Rosario, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and the entire island of Lanzarote. In these areas, health officials are warning that people over 65 and those with underlying health conditions are particularly vulnerable. Residents are advised to cancel all outdoor sports and physical activities between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
A Level 2 (moderate risk) alert is in place for Fuerteventura, Telde, and the eastern, southern, and western parts of Tenerife. Meanwhile, a Level 1 (mild risk) alert has been issued for the north, east, south, and west of Gran Canaria, northern Tenerife, and western La Palma.
The situation is being worsened by calima—Saharan dust—affecting the eastern islands and mid-altitude areas. While the dust levels are not expected to be extreme, the combination of suspended particles and low humidity makes it harder for the body to cool itself down.
These alerts are designed to prevent heatstroke and dehydration, which often lead to hospital admissions during extreme weather. Health authorities strongly advise staying in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible and rescheduling work or social plans to avoid being out in the sun during the hottest part of the day, when the risk to everyone is at its highest.