A prolonged heatwave is set to intensify across the Canary Islands this weekend, with temperatures expected to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius in some areas. In response, the Government of the Canary Islands has declared several alerts, particularly in mountain regions, due to the increased risk of extreme heat and wildfires.
On Tuesday, the regional government activated an orange alert for extreme temperatures in Gran Canaria, where values may surpass 37°C, alongside a forest fire alert for zones situated above 400 metres on all slopes of Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and Gran Canaria. These measures were taken due to the forecast of a “long and intense heatwave” likely to peak over the weekend.
- The high-temperature alert took effect at 10:00 a.m. today, while the fire alert began earlier, at 8:00 a.m.
- A pre-alert has also been declared on the four western islands, with a yellow weather warning issued by AEMET, Spain’s national meteorological agency.
The Directorate General for Emergencies attributes this episode to a temperature inversion at low altitudes, combined with relative humidity below 30% above 500 metres—typical indicators of wildfire-prone weather.
Minimum night-time temperatures are also expected to remain uncomfortably high, staying above 25°C in some areas. Winds will be light to moderate, blowing from the east and south on Wednesday, and shifting to easterly flows on Thursday and Friday, particularly in forest zones.
Yesterday’s highest temperatures were recorded in Gran Canaria, with:
- San Bartolomé de Tirajana reaching 33.6°C
- La Aldea de San Nicolás at 32.9°C
- Tejeda at 32.7°C
Forecasts suggest that inland areas in the south of Gran Canaria could see temperatures exceed 38°C on Thursday, climbing to 39°C or more over the weekend—3–4°C higher than southern zones on the western islands.
The Canary Islands Health Department has issued a statement confirming that the extreme temperatures are likely to persist until at least next Monday, marking a six-day heatwave—the first of the summer.
The General Directorate of Public Health warns of serious health risks, including heatstroke and related conditions, particularly among vulnerable groups such as:
- Children
- Pregnant women
- The elderly
- People with chronic illnesses
- Stay hydrated and eat light meals
- Avoid sun exposure during midday hours
- Limit outdoor physical activity, especially in the afternoon
- Check on vulnerable family members or neighbours
- Seek immediate medical advice if symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, nausea, weakness, blurred vision, or fever occur
According to Spain’s Ministry of Health, 1,060 heat-related deaths were recorded last month, a 57% increase compared to the same period last year.
In response to the high risk of wildfires, the Cabildo de Tenerife (Island Council) has activated the Tenerife Island Emergency Plan (PEIN) from 8:00 a.m. today. Under Level 1 prevention measures, the following activities are now prohibited in forest and mountain areas:
- All types of fires (including barbecues, bonfires, and gas cookers)
- Use of machinery or tools that may generate sparks, such as brush cutters, welding equipment, or cutting tools
- Fireworks and pyrotechnics in risk zones
- Smoking in recreational areas, campsites, trails, viewpoints, and other mountain facilities
- Local councils are advised to postpone or suspend any planned outdoor events in affected areas
- Residents and visitors are strongly urged to avoid entering forest areas, take maximum precautions, and follow self-protection guidance regarding extreme heat
This developing situation highlights the growing frequency and severity of heatwaves across southern Europe, particularly in insular and mountainous regions. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and follow all safety guidelines issued by emergency and health authorities.
