Amid scorchingly high temperaures, dry and windy conditions on the popular holiday islands of the Canaries, fire prevention measures have been activated on Tenerife since 8am on Monday (July 28), while the wildfire alert has been extended to include El Hierro, La Palma, La Gomera, and Gran Canaria, according to the Directorate General of Emergencies. Forecasts indicate temperatures will reach 37C in mid-altitude and highland areas, particularly in Gran Canaria, with relative humidity dropping below 30%.
Strong winds, above 30km/h (19 mph), shifting across the islands further increase the risk of wildfires spreading rapidly. As a result, the Canary Islands Government has activated the INFOCA wildfire emergency plan, urging extreme caution. This fire alert bans several popular summer-time activities for locals and tourists and also strongly advises everyone to avoid entering forested areas during the alert period.
This fire alert bans BBQ or open flames in recreational areas or outdoor spaces, including gas stoves and fire pits, smoking in forest areas campsires or public-use areas in the mountains, as well as a ban on fireworks near forested zones and spark producing tools like chainsaws or strimmers in risk areas.
The heightened concern follows an outbreak in La Palma, where early investigations suggest human activity was the cause. Officials stress that negligent behaviour, however minor, can lead to major fires under current weather conditions.
Emergency services across the islands remain on high alert and are coordinating efforts to monitor and prevent any outbreaks.
Authorities are asking the public to remain vigilant, follow official advice, and report any signs of smoke or fire immediately by calling 1-1-2. The restrictions will remain in force until the heatwave and fire risk subside.
This warning in the Canaries comes as fire crews tackle deadly in Greece and Turkey, where extreme heat is driving record-breaking temperatures and mass evacuations. Authorities reported active fire lines on Sunday evening in the Peloponnese region west of Athens, as well as on the islands of Evia, Kythira, and Crete. In Kythira, officials estimate that roughly 20% of the island’s land area has already been affected.
“We have injured firefighters, human lives were put at risk, properties have been burned, and forest areas have been destroyed,” said Climate Crisis and Civil Protection Minister Giannis Kefalogiannis.