The General Directorate of Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands has declared, from 08:00 hours this Sunday, the situation of alert for forest fire risk in Gran Canaria, in areas located at more than 400 metres above sea level on all slopes.
The alert for maximum temperatures has also been activated on the island of Gran Canaria, with the exception of the northern area situated below 400 metres, starting at 10:00 hours on the same day.
Thus, the weather forecast indicates that temperatures will rise this weekend. Therefore, on Sunday, the highest values are expected to be recorded in the midlands and higher areas of the southern half of Gran Canaria, where they are likely to reach or exceed 32 – 36ºC.
Regarding the risk of forest fires in Gran Canaria, areas located more than 400 metres above sea level are expected to see maximum temperatures reaching 36 degrees, with a temperature inversion at lower altitudes and relative humidity levels below 30%. This will be coupled with generally light to moderate northeast winds, which are expected to shift to light south winds at the summit.
The regional department reminds that the declaration of a pre-alert situation for forest fire risk remains in place for the islands of El Hierro, La Gomera, La Palma, and Tenerife.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE POPULATION
In light of the anticipated rise in temperatures over the coming days, in a shorter and less intense heat wave than the previous one, the Government of the Canary Islands has called on the public to implement self-protection recommendations established for such cases to avoid health risks related to heat and to prevent forest fires.
Considering this weather forecast, the regional Executive recommends to the public, among other advice, to avoid physical exercises during the peak hours of the day, to stay in cool places, to drink plenty of fluids, and to protect themselves from the sun while outdoors.
Additionally, it is advised to eat light and regular meals and to avoid alcohol consumption.
Due to the high temperatures, special care should be taken with the elderly and children, who are more vulnerable during intense heat episodes. Furthermore, if you are taking medication, it is important to consult with a doctor regarding any impact on thermoregulation or if adjustments or changes are needed.
PRECAUTIONS DURING ALERT
To prevent a forest fire, it is essential not to discard lit cigarette ends, matches, or waste in wooded areas. Similarly, fireworks, firecrackers, or any devices containing fire should not be used in high-risk areas, even in open fields, nor in agricultural land or residential areas surrounded by forests.
In this regard, it is crucial to follow the restrictions set by the various councils and municipalities both regarding access to forested areas and the activities that should be avoided in these zones until this risk situation has concluded.
In order to protect homes, it is considered “essential” to maintain a brush-free strip and to keep the area surrounding the property clear of dry vegetation and debris, as well as in undeveloped plots.
The regional Government reminds that if you see smoke or fire in the mountains, you should immediately call 112 and indicate the area where the smoke is seen and the location from which it is being observed, among other details, to quickly activate emergency resources.
