Canary Islands on extreme alert due to heatwave and risk of wildfires.

The Canary Islands are in a critical situation due to the rise in temperatures forecasted for the coming days. Starting today, the Government of the Canary Islands has extended the heatwave alert to all islands in the territory, including Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, in a context where temperatures could reach up to 37 degrees Celsius in some areas. This heatwave adds to the meteorological drought already affecting the region, significantly increasing the risk of wildfires. The General Directorate of Emergencies has issued a statement reiterating the importance of staying alert to adverse weather conditions. For several days, the western islands and Gran Canaria had already been declared on alert, and now the situation extends to the entire archipelago. The combination of high temperatures and lack of precipitation poses an alarming risk of fires, raising concerns among residents and authorities. In addition to the critical heat situation, strong trade winds are expected to arrive, particularly affecting the southeast, west, and northwest coasts of the islands. This phenomenon not only increases thermal discomfort but will also create a swell with waves of up to two meters in height. In response to this situation, the Government of the Canary Islands has declared a pre-alert for coastal phenomena, urging the population to take additional precautions. The recommendations for the public are clear and emphatic. Given the risk of wildfires, there is a call not to throw cigarette butts or matches in forested areas and to keep spaces free of debris that could spark a fire. The General Directorate of Emergencies emphasizes the importance of acting quickly: at the first sign of smoke, one should immediately contact 112 to facilitate the intervention of emergency services. Additionally, homeowners near forested areas are advised to maintain a strip of land free of dry vegetation and debris. This is crucial for protecting homes from potential fires. Proper management of combustible materials is also recommended, ensuring they are stored in ventilated areas and avoiding the accumulation of dry waste. Regarding the high temperatures, authorities urge the public to take extra precautions. It is suggested to avoid going outside during the hottest hours, and if necessary, to wear light clothing in light colors. Hydration is key, so it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids and stay in cool places whenever possible. Special attention should be given to the elderly and children, who are more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. The situation at sea also requires attention. Authorities advise postponing nautical and sports activities and avoiding swimming at poorly monitored beaches. Safety along the coast is paramount, with an emphasis on not approaching docks or jetties, especially if unusual wave activity is identified. The Government of the Canary Islands has made it clear that the combination of high temperatures and coastal phenomena presents a dangerous scenario for the population. Citizen collaboration is essential in this context, as prevention and adherence to recommendations can make the difference between safety and potential tragedy. Therefore, it is imperative for Canarians to stay informed and alert to adverse weather conditions. Collective responsibility and awareness of the environment are key tools for facing this critical situation and protecting both the population and local ecosystems. The Canary community must unite and act prudently, as everyone’s well-being depends on joint action in times of crisis.