The Canary Islands Government, through the Directorate-General for Emergencies, has activated a new alert for high wildfire risk in Gran Canaria, effective from 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, 4 November. The measure is due to the exceptional heatwave currently affecting the archipelago.
The alert is based on forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) and technical evaluations carried out under INFOCA, the regional Civil Protection and Emergency Response Plan for forest fires.
Affected areas
- Gran Canaria: wildfire alert activated for zones above 400 metres of altitude.
- Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro: the existing pre-alert remains in force, due to the combination of weather conditions and the dryness of vegetation.
According to Aemet, the islands will experience:
- an inflow of very warm, dry air, possibly accompanied by light calima
- abnormally high temperatures, exceeding 30 °C in mid-altitude and highland areas
- relative humidity below 30%
- wind gusts that could exceed 40 km/h
These conditions, together with dry vegetation and lack of recent rainfall, greatly increase the likelihood of fires spreading quickly.
Public safety recommendations
Authorities urge residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution, particularly in rural and forested areas.
Preventive measures:
- Do not start fires outdoors; avoid barbecues and agricultural burning.
- Do not use machinery that may produce sparks near vegetation.
- Do not discard cigarette ends, matches, bottles, or flammable waste.
- Follow any restrictions on access to forest tracks and paths.
- Report any smoke or fire immediately by calling 112.
Guidance for households with animals
To ensure the safety of pets in case of evacuation:
- Ensure animals are identified (microchip and updated contact details).
- Prepare an emergency kit: carrier, documentation, water and food for several days, collar and lead, and any medication required.
- Plan in advance which family member or friend could temporarily take care of the animal.
If a wildfire occurs
If you are caught in or near a fire:
- Stay calm and follow official instructions; avoid spreading rumours.
- Call 1-1-2 and provide clear information.
- If instructed to evacuate, turn off gas and electricity, take only essentials (documents, medicine, money), and use official evacuation routes.
- If surrounded by fire at home:
- stay inside, close doors and windows
- block gaps with wet towels
- spray doors and windows with water
- wear cotton clothing and stay low to avoid smoke inhalation
- In open land, move against the wind and head towards burnt areas if safe.
- If in a vehicle:
- stop in a sheltered spot
- close windows and ventilation
- turn on headlights to remain visible through smoke
If you find an injured wild animal, safely move it if you can and contact 112 or the nearest wildlife rescue centre.
