British tourists heading to Gran Canaria this week are being urged to be aware of the strict new ban as the island faces the risk of serious wildfires brought about by temperatures, dry air and intense winds.
Authorities on Saturday stimulated Infogran's bushfire prevention and response plans, alerting many of the islands, particularly at altitudes above 400 meters.
The Canary Islands Government's Emergency Director has also issued a high-risk warning, advises both residents and visitors to bear the utmost care in the coming days.
As part of the measures, the use of fires is banned entirely in hostels, campsites and recreational areas. This includes using the built-in BBQ, which is common on these sites. Fireworks are also prohibited within 400 meters of forest area, even in forest areas.
Additional restrictions apply to machines and equipment that can generate sparks and flames, with items that are all strictly prohibited while angle grinders, metal bladed brush cutters, chainsaws, welding equipment, and wildfire alerts are placed.
Local governments stressed that agricultural burning remains a major cause of the Grand Canaria wildfires and warned under current high-risk weather conditions. Even small sparks can lead to large flames. People are strongly encouraged to respect the prohibition in order to protect both people and nature.
The emergency warning is based on predictions that temperatures can reach 34-37°C inside and in the south of the island, but peaks of 26-32°C can be seen in the north.
If the risk is exacerbated, humidity levels are expected to fall below 30% at altitudes above 600 meters, along with light krima (dust haze) at high elevation and moderate northeastern Gust.
These conditions create what experts call the “perfect storm” of wildfires. Dry vegetation acts as a crater, low humidity removes what the plants don't hold, and wind can quickly incite flames.
Combined with a forest background with long-term drought and water-stressing, the risk of rapid, broad and catastrophic fires is very high.
Officials are urging all visitors from the UK and elsewhere to stay vigilant, follow official guidance and avoid activities that could cause a flame. We also recommend checking for local updates during your stay, as conditions can change rapidly during this high-risk period.
