Canary Islands Issue Forest Fire Alert as Heatwave Approaches

The Canary Islands government has raised its emergency alert level ahead of an incoming heatwave. Starting at 11:00 a.m. this Thursday, the regional authorities have activated the special civil protection plan for forest fires (INFOCA) following warnings from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET).

Forecasters expect a dangerous combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and shifting winds, which has pushed the forest fire risk index to very high levels.

In Tenerife, the alert is focused on the summit and mid-altitude areas of the southern and western slopes, where temperatures are expected to exceed 30ºC and could reach 34ºC. Gran Canaria is at even greater risk, with temperatures forecast to hit 34ºC in the interior and southwest, potentially peaking at 37ºC. Authorities are closely monitoring the summits, the north above 600 meters, and the west, south, and east slopes above 400 meters.

The risk is further heightened by humidity levels dropping below 30% and moderate to strong winds, which make it difficult to prevent or contain fires. While Tenerife and Gran Canaria are under a high alert, the islands of El Hierro, La Palma, and La Gomera remain on pre-alert, meaning they are being closely monitored for any changes in weather.

Officials are urging the public to exercise extreme caution. Given the dry and vulnerable state of the landscape, residents and visitors are asked to follow all safety guidelines to help prevent accidental fires.