As of April 27, the archipelago has entered a pre-alert phase in anticipation of Pope Leo XIV's visit, scheduled for June 11 and 12. This measure, announced by the Regional Government's Directorate General of Emergencies and Security, aims to ensure the safety of attendees and coordinate preventive actions for the expected large crowds.

The pontiff's itinerary includes two large masses, one at the Gran Canaria Stadium and another at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, as well as visits to migrant centers in Tenerife and a popemobile tour in the capital of Tenerife. These mass events have highlighted the complex mobility situation on both islands, which already face significant traffic congestion.

With a high vehicle density and an extensive but fragmented road network, the islands, particularly Tenerife, experience recurrent traffic jams. Authorities and organizers are assessing how to manage the flow of people and vehicles, considering that thousands of tourists and visitors from other islands and the mainland will join the resident population.

To mitigate the impact on traffic, proposals include encouraging teleworking and suspending in-person classes during the visit days. A spokesperson for the Government in the Canary Islands has indicated that the visit will impact mobility in Tenerife, with potential temporary closures on the TF-5 highway and access points to Santa Cruz de Tenerife and La Laguna.

Various institutions, such as the Island Council and some municipalities, have announced their collaboration in the organization, including funding for bus transfers to facilitate attendance at religious events. The Government of the Canary Islands has also confirmed its financial support, emphasizing the

needed to ensure the event's security and logistics. The total cost of the visit to Spain is estimated at least 15 million euros, with an economic impact exceeding 100 million in the visited areas.