The Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council has closed the Las Mesas park to the public following the activation of the Insular Emergency Plan due to extreme wildfire risk. This measure is in addition to the prohibition of making fires and using machinery in forest areas.
The Las Mesas park, in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, has been closed to the public since Thursday due to the high risk of wildfire. The decision, made by the City Council of the capital, responds to the activation of the Insular Emergency Plan of Tenerife (PEIN) by the Cabildo, which has prohibited transit on forest tracks and trails, as well as access to recreational areas.
This measure is part of the alert for extreme temperatures affecting the island. According to the State Meteorological Agency, temperatures could exceed 34 degrees in the midlands of the southeast, south, and west of Tenerife. The island authorities have established additional restrictions to minimise the risk of a fire breaking out.
The City Council reminds that other prohibitions were already in force, such as making fires in recreational and outdoor areas – including barbecues, bonfires, stoves, or gas cookers – as well as the use of machinery or tools that may spark, such as brush cutters, welding equipment, or cutting saws. The use of pyrotechnic materials in risk areas is also banned.
Another restriction that remains in place is the prohibition of smoking in recreational areas, camping zones, camps, tracks, trails, viewpoints, and other public infrastructure located in the mountains. The aim is to prevent any ignition source that could trigger a fire in a context of dryness and high temperatures.
The Cabildo of Tenerife, through the PEIN, has declared a state of alert due to wildfire risk. This activation involves mobilising means and resources for surveillance and rapid intervention in case a fire occurs. The decisions have been made based on information from the State Meteorological Agency and in application of the Plan for Risks of Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA) and the special civil protection plan for wildfires in the Canary Islands (INFOCA).
For the population, the recommendations are clear: do not access or remain in forest areas; take extreme precautions with any activity that may generate fires across the island; and adopt self-protection measures against the heat. Specifically, it is advised to avoid physical exercise during the hottest hours of the day, stay in cool places, drink plenty of fluids, and protect oneself from the sun. It is also recommended to have light and regular meals and avoid alcohol consumption.
The elderly and minors are the most vulnerable groups during these episodes of intense heat. Authorities recommend paying special attention to these groups and, if taking medication, consult with a doctor if it may affect thermoregulation or if dosage adjustments are necessary.
The Santa Cruz de Tenerife City Council reminds that the closure of Las Mesas park will remain in effect as long as the wildfire risk alert is in place. Citizens are urged to follow the authorities' instructions and stay informed through official channels.
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