Urgent warning for Spain UK tourists holiday hotspot as new rules in place 'until further notice'
A popular destination for UK tourists has issued an urgent wildfire warning for today (Monday 28 July) amid high temperatures and strong winds. The Government of the Canary Islands said the alert covers Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro.
Temperatures are expected to reach between 32-34C in parts of the archipelago, with peaks as high as 37C forecast for Gran Canaria.
Fire prevention measures c ame into force in Tenerife earlier today for areas above 400m in altitude.
The island council of Tenerife is urging people not to light barbecues in recreational areas, and smoking along forest areas, trails, campsites and public areas in the mountains is also prohibited. The measures will remain in place until further notice.
Several wildfires were reported in both Greece and Turkey over the weekend. Greece saw wildfires in the Peloponnese area west of Athens and on the islands of Evia, Kythira and Crete.
What's Banned Under Fire Alert
The Cabildo de Tenerife has outlined several restrictions as part of its Level 1 measures:
No barbecues or open flames in recreational areas or outdoor spaces (this includes gas stoves and fire pits).
No smoking in forest areas, trails, campsites, or public use areas in the mountains.
No fireworks or pyrotechnics in or near forested zones.
No use of spark-producing tools, such as chainsaws, strimmers, or welding equipment, in risk areas.
Residents and visitors are also strongly advised to avoid entering forested areas during the alert period
Foreign Office advice
Officials said: "Wildfires happen often in Spain, including on the islands, during the summer months. Be aware of your environment when visiting or driving through woodland areas. For information on wildfire risk visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET).
"Causing a wildfire is a criminal offence in Spain, even if unintentional. Make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished, do not light barbecues and do not leave empty bottles behind. You can be heavily fined for not following the rules against lighting outdoor barbecues in forest areas. Make sure you know the rules if considering a barbeque.
"For information on what to do in the event of a wildfire, visit Civil Protection (website in Spanish). Immediately report any fire you see to the emergency services on 112. In the case of wildfires, the situation can change quickly, so you should stay up to date with official advice."
Caution Urged After Fire in La Palma
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 calling on 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 subsides.
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