Forest fire alert in Gran Canaria due to rising temperatures and the arrival of warm African air.

The Canary Islands Government, through the General Directorate of Emergencies, has declared a pre-alert situation for maximum temperatures in Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria starting at 10:00 a.m. this Tuesday, July 15th. A forest fire risk alert has also been activated on the island of Gran Canaria starting at 12:00 p.m. on the same day. These decisions are made based on data from the AEMET (Spanish Meteorological Agency) and other technical bodies, and are part of the Specific Plan for the Risk of Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA) and the INFOCA (National Institute of Forestry and Forestry) plan. Furthermore, the pre-alert for fires remains in effect throughout the western province of the archipelago.

The weather forecast calls for the arrival of a warm, dry air mass from Africa, which will bring temperatures above 32 or 36 degrees Celsius (600 or 30 degrees Fahrenheit) to large areas of Gran Canaria—except in the north below XNUMX meters—Fuerteventura, and inland areas of Lanzarote. Calima (high-altitude haze) is also expected, with relative humidity dropping below XNUMX% at mid-high altitudes and moderate winds, shifting southward in peak areas. These conditions significantly increase the risk of forest fires, especially in the most vulnerable natural environments.

Given this situation, the Government of the Canary Islands requests that citizens exercise extreme caution and comply with self-protection recommendations. They are urged to avoid outdoor activities during the peak hours of the day, stay hydrated, take special care of the elderly, minors, and chronically ill, and follow the local council's instructions regarding access to and use of rural areas. They are also reminded that lighting fires in forest areas or setting off fireworks is prohibited. If you detect smoke or fire, call 1 immediately, as a quick response can prevent serious consequences.