The City Council of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has activated since this Monday the alert for maximum temperatures, which adds to the already existing warning for forest fire risk in high areas. Temperatures of up to 34 degrees are expected on the northern slope, and this episode will last at least until Friday.
The City Council of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has implemented this Monday the extreme heat alert protocol, coinciding with the arrival of a warm and dry air mass from the African continent. The measure, which came into effect at 1:00 PM, adds to the forest fire alert that has been active since last Sunday in areas situated above 400 meters in altitude. The Municipal Emergency Plan (PEMULPA) will remain operational to coordinate any incidents that may arise from both situations.
Intense heat until Friday
According to forecasts provided by the council, the northern slope of the island could reach a maximum temperature of 34 degrees in the coming days. The episode of high temperatures will last at least until Friday, when a gradual decrease in temperatures is expected, although this forecast is pending confirmation. The African air mass could be accompanied by dust, which would worsen the feeling of stuffiness and reduce air quality.
Recommendations for residents
The City Council has disseminated a series of tips to minimise the risks of heat. Among them, it is recommended to stay in cool and shaded places, keep homes closed during the day and ventilate them at night, wear light clothing, protect oneself from the sun, and drink water regularly. Alcoholic or very hot drinks and physical exercise during the hottest hours of the day are also discouraged. A warning that is always relevant: do not leave children or elderly people inside parked vehicles. Additionally, special attention is requested for elderly or sick neighbours living alone.
Forest fires: maximum caution
Regarding the risk of fires, the City Council reminds that it is prohibited to light fires outside of authorised recreational areas and that agricultural burns must be communicated in advance to the Cabildo of Gran Canaria. It is also emphasised not to throw cigarette butts, matches, or combustible waste in the mountains, and not to camp outside of designated areas. At any sign of fire, call 112 immediately. If the flames spread quickly, it is best to move away laterally, in the opposite direction of the wind, avoiding ravines and steep areas. And of course, do not cross roads or paths affected by smoke. Residents of high areas, such as the neighbourhoods of San Lorenzo, Tafira, or La Calzada, should be especially vigilant, as these are the areas with the highest declared risk.
A summer that tightens
Canary Islands are not immune to episodes of extreme heat, but the combination of high temperatures, dust, and dry conditions raises the fire danger to concerning levels. So far this year, the island has recorded several fire outbreaks that, fortunately, have not escalated, but the situation invites vigilance. The City Council reminds that prevention is the best tool and that, in case of emergency, it is essential to follow the instructions of emergency services. The episode will be monitored until Friday, when temperatures are expected to return to more normal values for the season.
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