Nine helicopters have been tirelessly working since the early hours of the morning to extinguish the fire that broke out at the summit of Gran Canaria on Tuesday. These helicopters are strategically concentrating their water supplies at the head of the blaze, located in Caldera de Los Marteles. The forecast suggests that the fire could be considered stable by this afternoon if the current circumstances remain unchanged.
During a press conference, the president of The Island Council of Gran Canaria, Antonio Morales, announced that the fire has entered the Caldera, and efforts are focused on halting its progression down the slope toward the bottom, where it is expected to die out. Encouragingly, the evolution of the fire has been positive, as it has been halted from advancing towards Valsequillo, a cause for concern due to its proximity to populated areas.
Morales reported that the left flank, toward Cueva Grande, is 70% controlled, while the right flank, heading towards Tirajana, is 80% contained. As a result, the GC-600 road has been reopened to the public.
The fire has affected an estimated area of about 390 hectares, a size that could have been more significant if not for its high starting point, which hindered its downward progression, and the improved environmental conditions during the night, with humidity at 50% and cooler temperatures.
The positive outcome of the fire can also be attributed to the prevention work carried out by the Cabildo throughout the year. This includes clearing dangerous vegetation areas and implementing fire control measures through grazing, prescribed burning, and forest treatments.
Despite the positive progress, a front that is still active measures between 500 and 800 meters long. Given the morning sunshine’s effect, there is a possibility of rekindling flames closer to the Caldera de Los Marteles, where concentrated efforts are being made to stop its advancement.
As the firefighting operations continue, the GC-130 road between Cruz de Los Llanos and Cazadores remains closed. The aerial resources in action include three helicopters from Tenerife, three from the Government of the Canary Islands, two from The Island Council of Gran Canaria, and a ninth helicopter for coordination, provided by the Guardia Civil.
