Juan Brignardello Vela
Juan Brignardello, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.
During the weekend, Gran Canaria and the western islands of the Canary archipelago will face a complex scenario, marked by a warning for the risk of wildfires and a pre-alert for high temperatures. This situation, which will remain active over these days, has been prompted by the extreme drought affecting the region and the rise in temperatures expected, with some areas possibly exceeding 36 degrees Celsius. The Government of the Canary Islands made this decision after a meeting of the Special Civil Protection and Emergency Attention Plan for Wildfires, during which adverse weather conditions were assessed. The coordination between the Deputy Minister of Territorial Cohesion and Water, Marcos Lorenzo, and the Director General of Emergencies, Fernando Figuereo, has been key to implementing the necessary measures in the face of the wildfire threat. Since July 19, the archipelago has been under a wildfire risk alert, a response to the exceptional and prolonged drought affecting vegetation. The water stress experienced by local ecosystems, combined with high temperatures, creates an environment conducive to the ignition and spread of fires. This weekend, temperatures in Gran Canaria could reach critical levels in areas such as the southern midlands and the peaks. In addition to the heat, the situation is complicated by a pre-alert for coastal phenomena, which has been expanded throughout the archipelago. A swell is anticipated that could produce waves of more than one and a half meters on the west and south coasts of the western islands. This phenomenon, in addition to affecting recreational activities at sea, could cause incidents in coastal infrastructures and bathing areas, prompting the population to act with caution. The General Directorate of Emergencies is committed to the continuous monitoring of these alerts and, depending on the evolution of weather conditions, will assess the possibility of modifying the situation starting Monday, August 5, when a slight decrease in temperatures is expected. However, until then, it is crucial for the population to stay alert to the recommendations issued by the authorities. The recommendations are clear: avoid the risk of fires in the mountains by refraining from throwing cigarette butts or lit matches, as well as leaving waste in wooded areas. It is also advisable to keep plots free of dry vegetation and waste, and to store fuels in ventilated and secure places. In case of spotting smoke or fire, immediate contact with 112 should be made, as rapid intervention is essential to control any fire outbreak. Regarding high temperatures, the government advises limiting sun exposure, especially during the hottest hours of the day. Wearing light and protective clothing, as well as staying constantly hydrated, are essential measures to mitigate the impact of heat, particularly for the elderly and children, who are more vulnerable to these episodes. On the other hand, the warning about sea conditions suggests suspending nautical and sporting activities on the beaches. It is also recommended to avoid swimming in poorly monitored areas and to stay away from coastal areas during unusual wave conditions. Safety on the coast is equally paramount, so one should not remain on docks or breakwaters that could endanger physical integrity. The combination of high temperatures and the risk of wildfires demands a collective and responsible response from the community. It is essential that citizens follow the authorities' recommendations and act prudently, taking care of both their well-being and the environment around them. The collaboration of all is key to facing these environmental challenges, which require both individual action and the design of effective prevention and mitigation policies.