The Canary Islands are enduring the most intense day of an exceptional heatwave, with four islands placed on red alert for extreme temperatures by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET). Yesterday, thermometers soared to 43.5 °C in Tasarte (Gran Canaria), 41.8 °C in Antigua (Fuerteventura), and 39.7 °C at the AEMET station in Llano de los Loros (La Laguna, Tenerife) — the highest readings recorded across the archipelago.
Widespread Red Alerts
Today, between 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., the islands of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote will remain under a red alert for extreme heat, indicating an extreme level of risk. The islands of La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro continue under an orange alert for significant risk.
The AEMET warns that calima (dust haze) arriving from North Africa will further intensify the oppressive conditions, reducing visibility and increasing the discomfort caused by the heat.
Forecasted Temperatures and Conditions
- Widespread highs of 39 °C, especially in inland areas.
- Peaks above 40 °C in parts of the south and interior of the red-alert islands.
- Inland Lanzarote and Fuerteventura could see temperatures up to 44 °C.
Night-time relief will be scarce, with minimum temperatures remaining at 26 °C or higher. In the mid-altitudes of the southern and western parts of the islands, the mercury may stay near 30 °C even at dawn, making sleep difficult.
Outlook for the Coming Days
- Sunday: Slight drop in temperatures (1–2 °C), but Gran Canaria will remain on red alert, with highs around 40 °C. The rest of the islands will be on orange alert, with maximums near 37 °C.
- Tuesday: Temperatures will moderate further, though some eastern islands and inland Tenerife could still reach 34 °C. Dust haze will persist, and strong gusts are expected on northwest slopes.
Health and Safety Recommendations
The Canary Islands Government and Public Health Department urge residents and visitors to:
- Avoid physical exertion during midday hours.
- Stay in cool, shaded locations.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
- Eat light, regular meals.
- Protect against the sun when outdoors.
- Pay special attention to elderly people, young children, and those with respiratory or chronic illnesses.
- Consider wearing masks and keeping windows and doors closed to reduce exposure to dust particles.
Fire Risk and Restrictions
All island councils and municipal authorities have activated emergency plans due to the heightened risk of forest fires. Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution with any activities that could ignite fires.
On Tenerife, additional restrictions are in force to prevent access to mountain areas. Given that the peak of the Perseid meteor shower coincides with the heatwave (Monday and Tuesday), authorities will close the main access roads to forest areas from 6:00 p.m. on Monday. These closures affect:
- La Esperanza (TF-24)
- La Orotava (TF-21)
- Chío (TF-38)
The measure aims to prevent the convergence of large crowds and traffic, which could hinder evacuations and firefighting operations in the event of a wildfire.
Authorities emphasise that this is one of the most intense heatwaves in recent years, urging the public to remain vigilant, comply with restrictions, and stay informed through official channels.
