The Tenerife Authority will enforce level 2 precautions from tomorrow Wednesday to prevent forest fires, considering the weather conditions with temperatures soaring to as high as 34 degrees. This implies that the use of recreational areas and camping sites is prohibited, as well as the circulation of motor vehicles on forest tracks, among other activities. Level 2 precautions will be in effect from 07:00 tomorrow until Monday, July 29.
The president of the Cabildo, Rosa Dávila, has urged residents to adhere to the guidelines, given the risk of forest fires due to the high temperatures: “We have elevated the precautionary measures to prevent people from traversing the mountains and any potential fire outbreak. We are confronting extraordinary circumstances and we must implement measures to ensure the safety of individuals and the natural surroundings.”
The ban on outdoor fires, including barbecues, bonfires, gas stoves, or burners, remains in place, and forestry activities and the use of machinery or tools that could generate sparks (such as brush cutters, welding equipment, or circular saws) are suspended. Furthermore, the use of any pyrotechnic items in high-risk areas is prohibited, and smoking is banned in recreational areas, camping sites, campsites, tracks, trails, viewpoints, and other public facilities in mountainous regions. Level 2 precautions prohibit the use of motor vehicles on forest tracks for recreational purposes and staying in recreational areas, camping sites, and campsites. Sporting events as well as pilgrimages on forest tracks and trails are also prohibited. Additionally, mouflon control activities have been put on hold.
The Authority urges the public to adhere to the recommendations of health authorities, including staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water (even when not thirsty) to prevent dehydration, using sun protection, sunglasses, and light-coloured attire, seeking shade, and limiting outdoor activities during the hottest hours (between 12:00 and 16:00). Concerning vulnerable individuals, special attention should be given to children, the elderly, and persons with chronic diseases, as they are more susceptible to the impacts of extreme heat.
