The visit of Pope Leo XIV to Tenerife will coincide with a day of very high solar radiation risk across much of the island, as warned by the General Directorate of Public Health. This alert affects several municipalities in Tenerife, including Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where a large mass will be held at the port.
The warning is particularly significant as much of the Pope’s itinerary will take place in outdoor locations. The mass scheduled at the Dársena de Los Llanos is set for midday, a time when sun exposure is highest.
Municipalities Affected in Tenerife
In Tenerife, the risk will be very high in Garachico, San Juan de la Rambla, Los Realejos, La Orotava, Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Úrsula, La Victoria de Acentejo, El Sauzal, Tacoronte, Tegueste, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Candelaria, Arafo, Güímar, Fasnia, and Arico.
Although the expected levels are not extreme, Public Health reminds us that prolonged exposure to high levels of sunlight can lead to burns, skin injuries, and eye problems. Moreover, one should not be complacent on cloudy days or breezy conditions, as ultraviolet radiation can still be high even when the heat feels less intense.
Sun Protection During the Port Mass
Those planning to attend the Pope’s mass at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife should consider that access controls, high attendance, and mobility restrictions may require several hours of time outdoors.
Public Health recommends using sun protection with an SPF of 50 or higher, seeking shade whenever possible, wearing a hat or cap, using approved sunglasses, and dressing in lightweight clothing that covers arms and legs.
It is also advisable to bring water, avoid prolonged direct exposure, and pay special attention to children, the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those with fair skin or a history of skin problems.
The Cumulative Damage of Sun Exposure
The General Directorate of Public Health emphasises that sun damage is cumulative. Excessive exposures and burns during childhood increase the risk of developing certain types of skin cancer many years later, even decades afterwards.
Acute effects of ultraviolet radiation can include sunburn, DNA damage, phototoxic and photoallergic reactions, and immunosuppression. Overexposure is also linked to various types of skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma.
UV radiation can also affect the eyes. Without appropriate protection, the risk of conditions such as conjunctivitis or cataracts increases, therefore sunglasses should have approved filters against ultraviolet radiation.
The Public Health warning is not intended to dissuade attendance at the events but to remind everyone that protection is essential during a day with outdoor activities and high sun exposure.
