A total of 2,000 personnel, 200 vehicles, and 18 aircraft are ready to fight fires in the Canary Islands this summer. The Archipelago launched its forest fire campaign on Monday, declaring a pre-alert for the first time this year in the western province and Gran Canaria due to high fire risks from rising temperatures. The regional government declared a pre-alert in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro, coinciding with the start of the meteorological summer and a hot day in parts of the Archipelago. Recent days have been warm in places like La Aldea de San Nicolás and Tejeda, with temperatures surpassing 28°C according to the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet). In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, temperatures reached 26°C, sending many people to Las Teresitas beach. Temperatures even exceeded 30°C in southern and western parts of Gran Canaria.
18: Aerial resources, provided by the regional government, local councils, and the State, form part of the fire-fighting operation. The summer weather, although late, poses a fire risk in the Canary Islands.
Favorable Conditions: According to Vicky Palma from the Risk and Planning Unit of the Emergency Coordination and Security Center (Cecoes) 112, “the campaign starts with more favorable climatic, meteorological, and environmental conditions than previous years due to the spring rains in March and April 2025.” However, she notes that some areas in Tenerife and Gran Canaria received 25% less rain than normal.
Aemet predicts a 70% chance of warmer-than-average temperatures this summer. Rainfall has increased by 37% in the western islands and 20% in the eastern ones compared to last year, but summer typically brings little rain.
The resources and equipment from the Canary Islands government, councils, municipalities, and the State are ready, confirmed the regional government. The operation includes the Forest Fire Reinforcement Teams (Eirif) based in La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro; the Emergency and Rescue Group (GES); and national park operations in Caldera de Taburiente and Garajonay. There are also seven large, inflatable water tanks for logistical support in remote areas.
200: Vehicles are ready to fight fires in the Archipelago. Three tanks have been sent to El Hierro, La Gomera, and La Palma, and four to Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Retardant stocks have increased, with 36,000 liters available for the Air Tractor and other light helicopters, plus two portable kits for use throughout the islands.
Deployed Resources: Island councils provide forestry brigades and professional and volunteer firefighting services. The State provides the Emergency Military Unit (UME) based in Gran Canaria and Tenerife, as well as the Forest Fire Reinforcement Brigade (BRIF) under the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, based in La Palma. A total of 18 aircraft remain available, with drones also being used for preventive and emergency measures.
Tips to Avoid Problems:
– Do not throw lit cigarettes or matches while walking or from car windows.
– Avoid leaving trash or waste in the forest.
– Do not set off fireworks in dangerous areas, near agriculture or close to forests.
– Clear branches touching houses and prepare basic tools and water supplies.
– For pets, have an emergency backpack with a collapsible carrier, documents, food and water for a few days, leash, waste bags, and a medical kit if needed. Ensure they are properly identified with updated contact details.
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