Canary Islands Issue Fire Alerts Amid Extreme Heatwave

The Canary Islands government has heightened its forest fire safety measures following a period of extreme weather. According to the Directorate General for Emergencies, authorities have activated response protocols tailored to the specific risks of each island.

While Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro are currently under a pre-alert, Gran Canaria has been placed on a higher alert level as of 2:00 p.m. this Monday, with surveillance focused on areas above 400 meters.

This preventive action, part of the INFOCA emergency plan, is in response to a heatwave expected to last until Thursday, July 2. Forecasters warn of temperatures reaching 35°C, with peaks of up to 40°C on the southern, western, and southeastern slopes. These conditions, combined with low humidity and a thermal inversion, create a high risk for the ignition and rapid spread of fires.

Given the increasing frequency of these heatwaves, officials are urging the public to exercise caution. Residents and visitors are asked to avoid any activities that could spark a fire in or near forest areas. With the islands' dry conditions and rugged terrain, authorities emphasize that constant vigilance is essential to protecting the region's natural environment.