Canary Islands Activate Alert for Papal Visit
Alert Activation for Papal Visit
From this Thursday, the Canary Islands will activate the Plateca alert for large events due to the visit of Pope Leo XIV to Gran Canaria and Tenerife. This measure, implemented by the Canary Islands Government, aims to enhance coordination among administrations and emergency services in anticipation of the large influx of people expected during the scheduled events.
According to a statement from the regional government, the alert will be activated from 08:00 on Thursday, 11 June, in Gran Canaria, and from 08:00 on Friday, 12 June, in Tenerife. The activation of this alert has already impacted the scheduling of other large events, specifically leading to the cancellation of concerts planned for this Friday as part of the Tenerife Music Festival in the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Enhanced Coordination
The General Directorate of Emergencies states that this measure will allow for “enhanced operational coordination among all involved agencies, maintain continuous monitoring of the event’s progression, and ensure immediate availability of necessary resources in the event of any incident that could affect public safety or the normal conduct of activities.”
The Canary Islands Government has urged the public to adhere to the recommendations and restrictions put in place by the authorities. Key guidelines include:
– Avoid unnecessary travel.
– Plan journeys in advance.
– Preferably use public transport.
– Stay informed about traffic restrictions and access points.
– Comply with instructions from security, emergency, and organising services at all times.
Public Recommendations
The government also recommends using designated parking areas, seeking alternative routes, and avoiding scheduling overlapping activities or events nearby that could impact mobility, safety, or the smooth conduct of the visit. Since the events will be outdoors, individuals are advised to:
– Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours.
– Wear light clothing.
– Bring fresh water, sun protection, and a hat.
For those attending with children, elderly persons, or individuals needing assistance, it is recommended to keep them located at all times and to agree on a meeting point in case of separation.
Pre-Alert Since April
The government reminds the public that a pre-alert situation has been in effect since 27 April as a preventive measure. They emphasise that the General Directorate of Emergencies and CECOES 112 have designed a “specific device” involving coordination centres at regional, island, and municipal levels, with a permanent presence at the main venues in Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
This operation will mobilise “43 professionals specialised in emergency coordination, planning, operational management, communications, and public information, along with eight coordination vehicles, eight advanced command structures, and a network of 200 TETRA radio communication terminals.”
The system will oversee “the nine self-protection plans developed for the various event scenarios.” Locations included in the deployment comprise the Fishermen’s Brotherhood in Arguineguín, the Town Hall in Vegueta, Gran Canaria Stadium, Gran Canaria Arena, the stadium annex, the CAE of Las Raíces, the Plaza del Cristo in La Laguna, the Pope’s route from La Salle School to the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and the port itself.
