The Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council has decided to activate the Municipal Emergency Plan (PEMU) and has suspended outdoor events organised by the Consistory, in light of the wind alert declared by the General Directorate of Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands, which commenced at midnight on Saturday, December 14.
This information was disclosed by the Tenerife Council in an official announcement, stating that the activation of the PEMU, as indicated in the decree signed by the Councilor for Security, Gladis de León, suspends activities arranged by the City Council, along with the closure of outdoor municipal facilities which draw public attendance (such as sports centres, municipal swimming pools, and sports fields) as well as any other leisure facilities.
Moreover, the statement mentions that this situation will persist for as long as the wind alert issued by the Government of the Canary Islands remains in effect. Thus, it is advisable to heed the recommendations associated with this type of risk, which generally include minimising unnecessary travel and paying close attention to the instructions from authorities on this matter, along with staying updated through official sources and the media.
It is advisable to secure doors, windows, and awnings to prevent drafts that may result in shattering and cascading glass. Additionally, it is recommended to remove pots and any objects from windows, balconies, and rooftops that could potentially fall onto the street and cause accidents. Furthermore, households should be inspected to confirm that there are no cornices, balconies, or façades in disrepair that could lead to falling debris.
According to the alert issued by the General Directorate of Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands, a general wind pattern from the south with moderate southeast winds is anticipated, exhibiting strong gusts along the coast and severe in the midlands, elevated regions, and summits.
Very powerful gusts are expected to reach or exceed 80-90 km/h, with localised bursts of up to 100 km/h on the northern and western slopes, as well as in the higher elevations and summits of the islands currently under Alert. Winds will vary from moderate to strong, predominantly from the east or southeast, with probable very strong gusts expected to surpass 60-70 km/h on the northern and western slopes, as well as in the higher regions and summits of the islands on Pre-alert status.
The City Council urges the public to behave responsibly and to avoid, “as much as possible,” putting themselves in danger.
