Pre-alert declared in the Canary Islands: High fire risk in Tenerife and Gran Canaria

The Canary Islands Government, via the Directorate General for Emergencies, has declared a pre-alert status due to the increased risk of forest fires in Tenerife and Gran Canaria. This measure takes effect at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 27 November. The decision, based on meteorological data from the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) and other sources, is part of the INFOCA Plan, which coordinates the civil protection and emergency response to forest fires in the region.

Affected Areas in the Canary Islands

The pre-alert applies specifically to:

• Regions above 1,000 metres in the northern parts of Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
• Areas above 400 metres in the southern parts of both islands.

Weather Conditions

Unusual weather patterns are creating conditions favourable for fires. These include:

• Dry, warm air combined with a haze.
• Unseasonably high temperatures for this time of year.
• A low-altitude temperature inversion, reducing relative humidity to below 30% from 600 metres today and 400 metres in subsequent days.
• Moderate southerly winds in higher altitudes, causing strong gusts in some areas.

Recommendations for Fire Prevention

To reduce the risk of forest fires, the government advises:

1. Avoid discarding lit cigarettes or matches outdoors or from car windows.
2. Do not use fireworks, firecrackers, or any fire-related items near forests, in open fields, or on agricultural land.
3. Keep the forest clean—dispose of rubbish responsibly.
4. Clear dry vegetation and overhanging branches near homes.
5. Ensure access to basic fire-fighting tools, such as hoses and axes, along with a sufficient water supply.

Advice for Pet Owners

For those with pets at home, preparedness is key:

• Ensure pets are identified and vaccinated.
• Prepare an emergency backpack with food, water, documentation, and any medical supplies needed for the animals.
• Update your contact details in the Canary Islands Animal Identification Register for easier recovery in case of loss.
• Arrange temporary housing for animals with friends or family in unaffected areas.

What to Do in Case of Fire

General Guidelines

• Stay calm and avoid spreading rumours.
• Call 1-1-2 for assistance and follow the instructions provided by authorities.

If Evacuation is Necessary

• Turn off electricity and gas supplies.
• Take essential items, such as documents, money, and medication.
• Use designated evacuation routes and leave early to avoid delays.
• If possible, use a single vehicle for the entire family, including pets, to ease evacuation efforts.

Staying Indoors

If the fire reaches your home:

• Seal doors and windows with wet towels and fill sinks or bathtubs with water for additional protection.
• Spray doors and windows with water and keep lights on to signal for help.
• Wear cotton clothing to reduce burn risk, and stay low to the ground to avoid heavy smoke inhalation.

Outdoors

If caught in open terrain:

• Move away from the fire, heading into an already burned area if possible.
• Near the coast, move towards the water for safety.
• Use a wet cloth to cover your face to minimise smoke inhalation.

Wildlife and Injured Animals

If you find a wild animal affected by fire:

• Wrap it gently in a blanket or towel, and transport it to the nearest wildlife recovery centre.
• If unable to assist, call for professional help or contact a wildlife centre.

The government urges all residents to stay informed and take precautions to protect lives, animals, and property during this period of heightened fire risk.