The General Directorate of Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands has extended the forest fire risk alert to all islands starting from 7:00 AM this Tuesday. This alert was already active in Gran Canaria since Monday afternoon. Additionally, Gran Canaria will be on high temperature alert from 11:00 AM on Tuesday, while the rest of the islands will remain on pre-alert.
The Canary Islands are also under a wind pre-alert since Sunday morning and, as of 10:00 PM on Monday, a pre-alert for coastal phenomena. Meteorological forecasts anticipate a moderate increase in maximum temperatures, which could be notable in the midlands of Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and La Gomera.
In Gran Canaria, maximum temperatures could reach 37 degrees Celsius in the midlands facing southeast, south, and west, and in the Tejeda basin. In Tenerife and La Gomera, up to 34 degrees are expected in the southeastern, southern, and western midlands. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura could see over 32 degrees in inland and southern areas. El Hierro and La Palma might experience temperatures exceeding 30 or 32 degrees more sporadically in southern and western midlands.
Thermal inversion, expected around 500 meters (locally descending to 300 meters), will favor the presence of very warm and dry air in midlands and summits. Relative humidity will drop below 30%, increasing the fire risk, which is expected to gradually subside from Wednesday, July 1st.
Regarding wind, moderate trade winds with strong gusts are expected, particularly from the northeast, affecting low-lying areas on the southeastern and western slopes of the larger islands. Locally very strong gusts, exceeding 90 kilometers per hour, are possible in Gran Canaria and La Gomera, as well as in parts of La Palma, Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura.
Concerning sea conditions, a northerly swell is predicted with waves up to two meters and rough seas, with areas of rougher seas on the northeastern and western coasts of El Hierro; southeastern and northwestern coasts of La Palma; western coast of La Gomera; southeastern and northwestern coasts in Tenerife; and in Gran Canaria, the western extreme and the southeastern coast.
Given this situation, the Government of the Canary Islands recommends the public take precautions to minimize risks. It urges against discarding lit cigarette butts, matches, or waste in wooded areas, nor launching fireworks or fire-containing devices in danger zones. It is crucial to maintain a clean strip free of dry vegetation and debris around homes and undeveloped plots.
Camping outside designated areas is advised against, and limitations on access and activities in forest areas set by the cabildos and town councils must be respected. To mitigate heat effects, physical exercise during central day hours is discouraged; staying in cool places, drinking plenty of fluids, sun protection, light meals, and avoiding alcohol are recommended.
In anticipation of strong winds, it is advised to remove flower pots and other objects from windows, balconies, and rooftops that could fall. It is also recommended to avoid approaching construction sites, scaffolding, cranes, illuminated signs, billboards, or any element that could be blown away. Regarding worsening sea conditions, people should avoid staying near the sea in places like docks and breakwaters, and postpone any nautical or coastal sports activities.
