The ongoing warm spell of high temperatures in the Canary Islands and Spain is being described as “unprecedented for the month of October” by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet). This heatwave is setting new records for the season and has continued to do so for the fourth consecutive day.
The Canary Islands took the top spots for maximum temperatures nationwide. Tenerife South airport recorded the highest temperature in Spain at 39.2ºC, up until 13:30 yesterday. It was followed by Tasarte in La Aldea de San Nicolás with 38.6ºC, Maspalomas with 38.1ºC, and Pájara in Fuerteventura with 37ºC. Other areas, such as El Matorral in San Bartolomé de Tirajana, exceeded 36ºC, and Agaete reached 35.8ºC. Stations in Lanzarote recorded 34.7ºC, and Llano de Los Loros in La Laguna measured 34.2ºC, making them some of the hottest locations.
The Regional Ministry of Health has issued various warnings to mitigate the health impacts of these extreme temperatures, with a focus on vulnerable populations and those engaged in outdoor activities. In Tenerife, a red warning (indicating high risk) for high temperatures is in effect in Adeje until the 8th of October, with yellow warnings in Candelaria, San Miguel, La Orotava, and Puerto la Cruz. In Gran Canaria, high-temperature risk warnings are active in Mogán, La Aldea de San Nicolás, and Santa Lucía until the 8th, and in San Bartolomé de Tirajana and Agüimes until the 6th. In Fuerteventura, high temperatures and associated high risks are expected in Pájara and Tuineje until the 7th.
These measures have been implemented to safeguard public health, particularly among vulnerable individuals and those involved in outdoor activities. Recommendations include staying in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned areas as much as possible, reducing physical activity, staying hydrated even if not feeling thirsty, paying special attention to infants, children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, the elderly, or individuals with heat-sensitive medical conditions.
