The Cabildo de Tenerife has initiated the Tenerife Insular Emergency Plan (PEIN) in response to the Maximum wind alert issued by the General Emergency Department of the Canary Islands Government starting from midnight on Thursday, April 3. This alert is due to the expected arrival of Borrasca Nuria, which may produce wind gusts reaching 120 km/h in Teide National Park and between 80 and 100 km/h in various towns across the island.
As a precautionary measure, the Insular Corporation has mandated the closure of all 41 trails in Teide National Park and has restricted access to paths and forest tracks throughout the island. Additionally, the public is prohibited from using recreational areas and camping sites managed by the Cabildo to mitigate risks for the community during this adverse weather event.
Alongside the maximum wind alert, the General Emergency Directorate has issued a pre-alert for rain, effective from 09:00 on Thursday. Light to moderate rainfall is anticipated, with localised heavy showers potentially reaching or exceeding 15 to 20 litres per square metre within an hour, particularly affecting the central and southern regions of Tenerife.
Suspension of Classes and Public Recommendations
The president of the Cabildo, Rosa Dávila, has urged the public to Avoid unnecessary travel while the alert is in effect. She has also announced that, in coordination with the Canary Islands government, all educational institutions on the island will suspend classes starting Thursday, April 3, as a preventive measure to ensure the safety of students and teaching personnel.
In addition, Blanca Pérez, the island’s advisor for the natural environment, sustainability, security, and emergencies, has stated that the activation of the REin results in various recommendations for both residents and municipalities, aiming to prevent incidents.
Preventive Actions and Internal Organisation
The Cabildo has advised the public not to visit Teide National Park during the duration of the weather event. Should travel be essential, individuals are urged to exercise utmost caution on the roads traversing the summit. The Occupational Risk Prevention Area has also been requested to facilitate Teleworking for Insular Corporation Staff, except in situations where essential services are being rendered.
Moreover, various councils within the Cabildo have been advised to suspend all outdoor activities, with municipalities encouraged to evaluate the implementation of precautionary measures in line with the current risk level. Citizens are also advised to adhere to the self-protection guidelines issued by Civil Protection authorities.
The decision regarding the closure of trails in Teide National Park will take effect from midnight on April 3 and will remain in place until conditions for access improve. For further inquiries, the Cabildo has provided the phone number 922 922 371.
