The Cabildo of Tenerife activated on Wednesday, 10th of April, the Insular Emergency Plan (PEIN) due to the alert for the risk of coastal flooding and forest fires, declared by the Directorate General of Emergencies (DGE) of the Government of the Canary Islands. Additionally, an alert has been issued for high temperatures, wind, and a pre-alert for the presence of calima.
The president of the insular Corporation, Rosa Dávila, stated at a press conference that during the night from Tuesday to Wednesday, various coastal floods occurred in the southeast coast affecting houses in the municipalities of El Rosario, Candelaria, Arafo, Güímar, and Arico. She pointed out that 17 houses and five vehicles have been affected by the strong waves, and highlighted that 40 individuals have been evacuated preventively in the municipalities of Arico and Arafo. “Fortunately, there have been no personal injuries. Some material damages such as broken doors and belongings have occurred,” she expressed.
Considering the predicted sea conditions and the persistence of spring tides, Dávila announced that coastal areas have been sealed off. Additionally, she added, a shelter has been set up in the Day Centre of Abades in collaboration with the Red Cross to support the evacuated individuals. “In many cases, these are second homes, but we are prepared to accommodate around 50 people if necessary.” The president of the Cabildo mentioned being in contact with the affected municipalities “to work jointly and assess the damages.”
Regarding the sea conditions, “it should be noted that high tide for today, Wednesday, 10th of April, is expected between 15:00 and 15:40 hours, but strong waves can occur both in the two hours prior and after this time frame.” “We are expecting waves that can reach up to four meters, so the population is urged not to approach coastal areas,” asserted Dávila.
The Cabildo advises the population not to stand near the edges of piers or breakwaters where the waves crash, refrain from risking to take pictures or videos at the shoreline where the waves break, avoid driving on roads close to the beach during high tides, and steer clear of engaging in sports and recreational activities close to the coast.
Risk of Forest Fires
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The Cabildo has activated level 2 preventive measures for forest fire prevention and has prohibited any open fires outside, including barbecues, bonfires, stoves, or gas cookers. Moreover, the use of any machinery or tools that may produce sparks (brush cutters, welding equipment, or cutting grinders) has been banned, along with the use of any fireworks in high-risk areas.
Similarly, motor vehicle circulation is prohibited on the forest track network for recreational purposes, along with the stay in recreational areas, camping zones, and campsites. Sports events and pilgrimages on forest trails and off-road areas are also not allowed.
This decision has been made based on the forecasts provided by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and other sources regarding the advection of African continental air affecting the island starting this Wednesday, “which will lead to a considerable rise in temperatures to summer-like values, a decrease in humidity, and the likely presence of calima.” These factors have resulted in the activation of a yellow alert for maximum temperatures, as they are expected to reach and exceed 34°C from Thursday onwards.
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The Cabildo of Tenerife advises the population not to enter or stay in forest areas, take extra precautions with any activities that may cause fires, and implement self-protection measures against heat and calima.
