Canary Islands on High Wildfire Alert
The Canary Islands Emergency Services have declared a maximum wildfire alert for La Gomera and Gran Canaria, with El Hierro, La Palma, and Tenerife under general alert. In Gran Canaria, the highest-risk areas include northern slopes above 200 meters and all other regions above 400 meters. Temperatures are expected to reach 34–40°C, with unusually high nighttime lows, creating dangerous conditions.
Extreme Weather Conditions
A low-altitude temperature inversion below 400 meters and strong northeastern winds—with gusts up to 70–90 km/h—are exacerbating the fire risk. While calima (dust haze) is receding, the intense heat and dry conditions remain critical. Island authorities are implementing preventive measures, including closing forest trails and recreational areas.
Restrictions and Closures
Tenerife’s local government has banned access to forest paths and recreational zones, including Las Mesas Park in Santa Cruz, under its Emergency Plan (PEIN). Open flames, barbecues, fireworks, and spark-producing machinery (such as chainsaws and welding equipment) are prohibited. Similar restrictions apply in Gran Canaria, where agricultural burns—a major wildfire cause—are strictly forbidden.
Weekend Weather Relief
The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) predicts a slight temperature drop this weekend, reducing alert levels. Only southern Gran Canaria, particularly the Tirajana basin, remains under a yellow heat warning. Interior areas may still hit 30°C, with peaks of 34°C in Gran Canaria’s southern and western mid-altitude zones—less likely in Tenerife’s southeast and Fuerteventura. By Saturday, temperatures are expected to fall further, with highs around 30°C.
