The Directorate-General for Emergencies of the Canary Islands Government has announced an upgrade to the current alert level due to the ongoing extreme heatwave. Effective from 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 16 July, a full alert for maximum temperatures has been declared across all islands in the archipelago.
This decision comes in response to updated forecasts provided by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and other authoritative sources, under the framework of the Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA), established by Decree 18/2014 of 20 March.
Unprecedented Temperatures and Health Concerns
The heatwave is expected to impact the entire Canary Islands, with daytime highs ranging between 34°C and 38°C, particularly in inland and mid-altitude areas. Night-time temperatures will also remain unusually high, with widespread minimums above 25°C, and possibly exceeding 28°C in the midlands of Gran Canaria.
This intense episode of heat will be accompanied by a light haze (calima), which may reduce visibility and negatively affect air quality in several regions.
Fire Risk Prompts Broader Alert
Simultaneously, the regional government has extended the forest fire alert to all islands, also effective from 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, invoking the Special Civil Protection Plan for Forest Fires (INFOCA).
This fire risk alert covers El Hierro, La Palma, La Gomera, and Tenerife, and in Gran Canaria, it applies to areas located above 600 metres in the north and above 400 metres across other slopes.
Forecasted conditions contributing to the elevated fire risk include:
- Thermal inversion below 400 metres
- Relative humidity below 30% at elevations from 400 metres
- Light to moderate easterly winds in forested zones on Wednesday
- Increasing northeasterly winds in the following days, with potential gusts over 70 km/h on El Hierro, La Gomera, La Palma, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria
Government Recommendations for Public Safety
In light of the extreme heat, the Canary Islands Government advises residents and visitors to:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest hours of the day
- Consume light meals regularly and stay hydrated
- Refrain from alcohol consumption
- Seek shade while walking and use sunshades when at the beach
- Rest in cool or air-conditioned environments when possible
Regarding fire prevention, the authorities stress:
- Do not discard lit cigarette butts, matches, or rubbish in forested or natural areas
- Avoid the use of fireworks, firecrackers, or any flame-producing devices in or near wooded areas, agricultural fields, or urban zones adjacent to forests
- Prepare basic fire-fighting tools, such as hoses and water supplies, particularly in vulnerable zones
The public is also urged to comply with local restrictions set by municipalities regarding access to forests and the suspension of any work activities that might pose a fire risk during the alert period.
Finally, if anyone observes smoke or fire, it is imperative to call emergency services (112) immediately. Rapid response is critical to containing any potential outbreak before it spreads uncontrollably.
