The General Directorate of Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands has declared a situation of alert for the risk of wildfires starting from 08:00 hours on Wednesday, 6th August.
The measure is adopted in accordance with the Special Civil Protection and Emergency Attention Plan for Wildfires in the Canary Islands (INFOCA), approved by Decree 60/2014, dated 29th May.
The alert affects the Islands of El Hierro, La Palma, La Gomera, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria, specifically in areas located over 400 metres in altitude on all their slopes.
Adverse Weather Conditions
The declaration is based on available meteorological information indicating a long heat wave, with the possibility of intensification over the weekend.
A thermal inversion is expected at low altitudes and relative humidity below 30% from 500-600 metres in altitude. Maximum temperatures could reach or exceed 34-37 degrees, with minimum temperatures exceeding 25 degrees.
Moreover, light to moderate winds are expected in forested areas, from the east and south on Wednesday 6th, and from the east on Thursday 7th and Friday 8th August.
Recommendations for the Public
The General Directorate of Emergencies reminds that, during high-risk episodes, it is prohibited to light fires, even in barbecues at recreational areas. It also urges to avoid activities that generate sparks (such as the use of strimmers or welding equipment) in forest areas and not to discard cigarette butts, matches, or combustible waste.
For activities such as hiking, it is recommended to be well acquainted with the terrain, use marked paths, and not to camp outside of designated areas.
In case of detecting a fire, you should call 1-1-2, observe the direction of the fire, move away through the lateral areas, and avoid running uphill. If there is smoke, you should cover your mouth and nose with a damp cloth and drink liquids.
Precautions for Isolated Dwellings or Dispersed Settlements
To minimise risk for isolated buildings, it is recommended to:
- Maintain a vegetation-free zone around the dwelling (at least 2 metres alongside the façade and 10 metres on the plot).
- Clean roofs and façades of dry leaves or branches.
- Have a hose reel and an ABC type fire extinguisher.
- Avoid flammable materials in fences or outside structures.
- Store combustible materials (such as butane cylinders or diesel) in ventilated and protected areas.
In case of emergency:
- If evacuation is ordered, it must be carried out following the instructions of emergency services.
- If evacuation is not possible, close doors and windows, turn off gas and fuels, water the external area, and seal openings to prevent smoke from entering. It is also recommended to protect yourself with cotton clothing, closed shoes, and a mask or damp cloth.
