Officials in the Canary Islands are ramping up fire prevention efforts amid fears of potential devastating wildfires this summer, driven by dry conditions and above-average temperatures. Measures include public awareness campaigns, early detection strategies, and the establishment of a specialised forest fire unit.
Concerns are growing over potential wildfire outbreaks across the Canary Islands this summer, following last year’s catastrophic fires. In August 2023, a fire in Tenerife, the worst in four decades, destroyed 15,000 hectares within three days. This year, continuous dry and hot weather exacerbates the fire risk.
On June 12, Canary Islands President Fernando Clavijo, Security Councillor Nieves Barreto, and Territorial Policy Councillor Manuel Miranda met to discuss fire prevention strategies. Miranda emphasized the increased fire risk, urging public vigilance for early detection and rapid response.
A public awareness campaign will launch, encouraging residents to contact emergency services at the first signs of fire. Additionally, coordination among official bodies will intensify, with a special forest fire unit being established.
The region faces a 70% chance of above-average summer temperatures and recorded only half of the expected winter rainfall, worsening conditions for fire outbreaks. In response, Tenerife President Rosa Davila declared a state of water emergency in late May, implementing 75 measures to mitigate the drought’s effects.
Separately, UK holiday operators face pressure to cancel trips to Spain, including the Canary Islands, due to growing anti-UK tourist sentiment and ongoing local protests. Some British tourists advocate for alternative destinations like Turkey, citing better value and friendliness.
These developments reflect rising concerns over both natural and socio-political issues impacting the Canary Islands and its residents.
