The Cabildo of Tenerife has decided to activate the preventive Insular Emergency Plan of Tenerife (PEIN) from 08:00 hours on Wednesday, 16th July, due to the alert for high temperatures and the risk of forest fire.
It is also implementing grade 1 measures for the prevention of forest fires, meaning that lighting fires in recreational and outdoor areas (whether barbecues, bonfires, stoves, or gas cookers) is prohibited. The use of any machinery or tools that may spark (strimmers, welding equipment, spark-producing machines, or cutting tools) and the use of any pyrotechnic materials in risk areas is also banned.
Smoking is prohibited in recreational areas, camping zones, campsites, paths and trails, viewpoints, and other public infrastructures located in the forest.
This decision is made based on the weather forecasts for the coming days, which indicate a significant increase in temperatures caused by the movement of dry and warm continental African air over the Canary archipelago, leading to a notable decrease in humidity and the arrival of dust.
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has also issued a warning for the risk of maximum temperatures, mainly affecting the mid-altitudes of the south and west, as well as the high areas of the metropolitan area. Moreover, the General Directorate of Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands has issued an alert for the risk of forest fire and maximum temperatures.
The Cabildo of Tenerife recommends that the various Ministries of the Insular Corporation consider the possible suspension or postponement of outdoor activities that were programmed, especially those whose development coincides with the indicated areas and scopes.
Additionally, it advises municipalities to assess the adoption of preventive measures appropriate to the risk situation.
As for the public, it is recommended not to enter or remain in forest areas; to take extreme precautions across the insular territory with any activities that may generate fires; and to take self-protection measures against high temperatures.
