The Canary Islands are facing a prolonged period of high temperatures, as confirmed by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), which has issued a yellow alert for the region. This warning anticipates temperatures reaching up to 36 degrees due to a Saharan air front sweeping across the archipelago, intensifying the already sweltering conditions.
The intense heat wave, marked by the return of sweltering weather this weekend, shows no signs of dissipating. According to Aemet, starting next week, a significant warm front will impact the islands, particularly affecting the midlands and highlands.
The situation is expected to peak around July 20th, with a forecasted substantial rise in temperatures, particularly on the western and southern slopes at altitudes between 800 and 2100 meters.
Furthermore, the regional government has sustained an alert for forest fire risks, a critical concern given the current dry and hot conditions. As part of preventive measures, the pre-alert for wind has been lifted as of noon today, although the forest fire risk remains firmly in place.
This continuous alert encompasses various regions, including La Palma, El Hierro, La Gomera, Tenerife, and parts of Gran Canaria, underscoring the widespread nature of the potential danger.
Amidst these severe weather conditions, the Island Council of Tenerife has taken additional precautionary steps by banning smoking in the island’s natural areas to mitigate the risk of fires, reflecting the heightened vigilance required during this period of extreme heat.