Since Saturday, wildfires have blazed through Gran Canaria. During a press conference yesterday, authorities labelled the incident “an unprecedented environmental tragedy.” Thousands have been evacuated from the town of Vallesco and near the village of Tejeda, and the surrounding areas.Since Saturday, wildfires have blazed through Gran Canaria. During a press conference yesterday, authorities labelled the incident “an unprecedented environmental tragedy.” Thousands have been evacuated from the town of Vallesco and near the village of Tejeda, and the surrounding areas.
It is now thought the fires are advancing on two fronts through a mountainous area of the island.
Recent estimates suggest around 700 firefighters are on the ground to help quell the flames, including 200 from the military.
The wildfire has so far spared residential areas and tourist hotspots, but has spread into Tamadaba natural park – one of the island’s oldest pine forests.
With 2,000 holidaymakers now evacuated from the Island, the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has issued an updated warning today.
The FCO said: “In Gran Canaria, several areas in the north west of the island have been evacuated due to an ongoing forest fire.
“The authorities are working to extinguish the flames.
“If you’re in the area or planning to visit, check the latest updates and information on Twitter @112canarias and follow the advice of the local authorities.”
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The Foreign Office also warns: “Forest fires occur frequently in Spain (including Spanish islands) during the summer months.
“Take care when visiting or driving through woodland areas. Make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished, do not light barbecues and do not leave empty bottles behind.
“You should be aware that causing a forest fire is treated as a criminal offence in Spain even if unintentional.
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“If you see what you think might be the onset of a forest fire, call the emergency services on 112.”
At a press conference earlier this week, regional president Angel Victor Torres told a news conference: “The fire is not contained nor stablised or controlled.”
Efforts to tackle the blazes have been hampered by current weather conditions, with high temperatures, strong winds and low humidity contributing to the continuing situation.