The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and the Government of the Canary Islands have issued an updated alert concerning the heatwave currently affecting the archipelago, with Gran Canaria identified as the most significantly impacted island, although high temperatures are expected across all islands.
Fire Risk and Temperature Alerts for Gran Canaria
The Directorate General for Emergencies has declared a forest fire alert in Gran Canaria starting from 08:00 a.m. on Sunday, applicable to all areas situated above 400 metres in elevation on any slope of the island.
In parallel, a pre-alert for extreme temperatures has been activated for Gran Canaria, with the exception of the northern region located below 400 metres above sea level. This temperature pre-alert came into effect at 10:00 a.m. the same day.
Forecast for the Coming Days: Temperatures to Rise
The weather forecast indicates that temperatures will climb throughout the weekend, with the highest values expected on Sunday and Monday. Areas particularly affected include the mid-altitude and highland zones of southern Gran Canaria, where temperatures are forecast to reach or exceed 34°C, and in some cases up to 36°C.
In these areas, the following aggravating factors contribute to the heightened fire risk:
- Strong temperature inversion at lower altitudes
- Relative humidity below 30%
- Light to moderate winds from the northeast, shifting to a light southerly flow near the summit
These conditions create a volatile environment for forest fires, and the public is urged to exercise extreme caution.
Fire Risk in Other Islands
The pre-alert for forest fire risk remains in effect on the islands of:
- El Hierro
- La Gomera
- La Palma
- Tenerife
Public Health Recommendations
Although this heatwave is expected to be shorter and less intense than the previous one, the Government of the Canary Islands strongly advises the population to follow established self-protection guidelines, both to safeguard health and reduce fire hazards.
Recommended precautions include:
- Avoid outdoor physical activity during peak sunlight hours
- Stay indoors or in cool, shaded areas
- Hydrate frequently, even without feeling thirsty
- Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and hats when outside
- Eat light meals at regular intervals and avoid alcohol consumption
- Monitor vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly and young children
If you are taking medication, consult your healthcare provider to determine whether it may interfere with your body’s temperature regulation, or if dosage adjustments are necessary during periods of extreme heat.
Fire Prevention Measures During the Alert
To minimise the risk of forest fires, the regional government issues the following strict safety guidelines:
- Do not discard cigarette butts, matches, or litter in or near wooded areas
- Refrain from setting off fireworks, firecrackers, or any flame-based devices, especially in:
- Forested zones
- Agricultural fields
- Rural residential areas near vegetation
- Respect local council restrictions on forest access and avoid performing work in at-risk zones until the fire danger has passed
- Keep residential areas safe by clearing dry grass, vegetation, and debris from around buildings and undeveloped plots
Emergency Procedure
In the event of detecting smoke or fire, residents should immediately contact 112. When calling, provide:
- The exact location of the sighting
- The direction from which the smoke is visible
- Any relevant details that may assist emergency services in responding quickly
The Government emphasises the importance of early reporting to prevent fire spread and protect both lives and natural areas.
