Santa Cruz de Tenerife 8 Apr. (Press Europa) –
The Cabildo de Tenerife has resolved to implement the Insular Emergency Plan of Tenerife (Pein) starting from midnight on Wednesday due to the impending arrival of the ‘Olivier’ storm, which is expected to bring heavy and intense rainfall, potentially reaching or exceeding 15-30 litres per square metre in an hour and 40-80 litres in twelve hours, accompanied by thunderstorms and severe gusts of wind. Wind speeds may reach or exceed 70 kilometres per hour.
Consequently, recreational and camping areas under the Cabildo’s jurisdiction will remain closed, and access to forest tracks and trails affected by the significant fire of 2023 is prohibited as a precautionary measure.
Furthermore, travel along the paths in Teide National Park that lead to the peak is restricted, and canyoning activities across the island are also prohibited, as noted by the Cabildo.
The General Emergency Directorate of the Canary Islands Government has issued an alert for rainfall (at midnight) alongside a prealert for flooding (at midnight), storms (from 6 a.m.), and strong wind gusts (from noon).
The Cabildo’s decision followed a meeting held on the morning of Tuesday, involving the Minister of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies, Blanca Pérez, and the Insular Director of Security and Emergencies, Iván Martín, along with officials from the Government of the Canary Islands, including administrative technicians.
Additionally, Cabildo officials conducted a discussion with the 31 municipalities to brief them on the anticipated impacts on the island, particularly in flood-prone areas, to ensure appropriate preventive measures are taken.
Rosa Dávila, the president of the Cabildo, urges the public to exercise caution during activities, avoid unnecessary travel, and heed the authorities’ recommendations during the alert period.
Recommendations
Blanca Pérez, the Minister of Natural Environment, Sustainability, and Safety and Emergencies, outlines that these measures are necessary to protect the community and highlights that the activation of the Pein involves several guidelines for both residents and municipalities across the island.
The Cabildo advises against visiting Teide National Park during the duration of the weather event and requests maximum caution while on the roads, encouraging individuals to refrain from any non-essential travel.
It is also recommended to avoid traversing flood-prone areas of ravine channels, and the various councils of the Insular Corporation are prompted to implement any preventive actions they consider essential, particularly concerning planned outdoor activities.
Moreover, municipalities are encouraged to activate their respective municipal emergency plans (PEMUS) and adopt necessary preventive measures as per the ongoing situation, whilst reminding the population to adhere to the self-protection guidelines issued by Civil Protection authorities.
