The Canary Islands Government has activated a new pre-alert for adverse coastal conditions, adding to the existing maximum alert for forest fire risk and the ongoing heat alert across the archipelago’s higher islands.
Rough Seas Add to Weather Risks
According to the Directorate General for Emergencies, rough seas are forecast to bring waves of up to two metres along the southwest, south, and southeast coasts of El Hierro, La Gomera, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria. This coastal hazard coincides with the current episode of high temperatures and light haze, prompting the activation of a pre-alert under the Canary Islands’ Plan for Adverse Weather Risks (PEFMA).
Persistent Heatwave and Haze
The maximum alert for forest fires remains in force for Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Palma, in accordance with the Special Civil Protection and Emergency Response Plan for Forest Fires in the Canary Islands (INFOCA). Authorities cite the persistence of dry, warm air in forested areas as a major concern.
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and the CECOES 112 Risk Analysis Unit report that the heatwave will continue at least until Friday, with relative humidity below 30% and a light haze.
Safety Recommendations for the Public
The Canary Islands Government urges residents and visitors to adopt strict self-protection measures, tailored to the current combination of hazards:
For coastal conditions:
- Avoid swimming at remote or unguarded beaches.
- Respect warning flags and follow lifeguard instructions.
- Postpone nautical or sporting activities in affected areas.
For heat and haze:
- Avoid outdoor exercise during the hottest hours of the day.
- Stay in cool, shaded areas.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
- Eat light, regular meals.
- Wear sun protection when outdoors.
- Pay special attention to the elderly, children, and individuals with health conditions.
For people taking medication:
- Consult your doctor to check whether your treatment affects your body’s ability to regulate temperature, and to determine if any adjustments are needed.
When haze increases:
- Keep doors and windows closed.
- Avoid going outside if you suffer from respiratory or chronic illnesses.
Preventing Forest Fires
Authorities emphasise the need to avoid any activity that could spark a fire during this period of extreme risk:
- Do not discard lit cigarette butts, matches, or rubbish in wooded areas.
- Refrain from using fireworks, firecrackers, or any devices involving fire, even in open fields, farmland, or residential zones near forests.
- Maintain a clear safety perimeter around homes, free from dry vegetation or debris.
- Avoid camping outside designated areas, especially in remote locations far from access roads.
- Follow all restrictions set by local councils regarding entry into forest areas and the types of work prohibited during this alert.
Emergency Response
The Government reminds the public that any sign of smoke or fire should be reported immediately by calling 112.
