Title: Wildfire in Spain’s Tenerife Prompts Evacuations as Firefighters Battle for Control
Date: August 17, 2023
TENERIFE, Canary Islands, Spain – A devastating wildfire has broken out in a mountainous national park on the Spanish island of Tenerife, prompting authorities to evacuate over 3,000 people as firefighters struggle to contain the blaze. The fire, which started on Wednesday, has quickly spread through the dry and hot weather conditions, extending for 41 km.
“The fire is still advancing … but the priority is to defend the population centers tonight,” stated Fernando Clavijo, the region’s leader, during a press conference held late at night. He added that this is the most complex wildfire the Canary Islands has faced in the last 40 years.
Despite the efforts of around 200 firefighters, the fire continues to burn, spreading towards the northeastern part of Tenerife. The emergency services are concerned about the increasing temperatures expected over the weekend, which could push the fire further westwards.
Earlier in the day, waterbombing aircraft managed to stabilize the blaze south of Mount Teide volcano, Spain’s highest peak. However, the flames quickly advanced “out of control” on the northern flank, engulfing dry woodlands towards a valley with several camping sites and filling the island with smoke and ash.
Residents in villages like La Esperanza have been urged to stay home due to heavy smoke. Alba Gil, a 37-year-old resident, described the suffocating conditions, saying, “When you go outside, you start suffocating. It’s as if you have something stuck in your throat.”
According to official reports, the fire has already consumed over 3,273 hectares (8,088 acres) of land. Authorities have warned that further evacuations and confinements may be necessary and are advising people to stay updated with public service alerts.
To combat the raging wildfire, 17 aircraft and 350 firefighters and military personnel have been deployed. Despite a helicopter malfunction, 16 aircraft are set to resume duties on Friday.
The scorching heat and dry weather this summer have contributed to severe wildfires not just in Europe but also in western Canada and Hawaii’s Maui, where they have claimed numerous lives.
Scientists believe that climate change, driven by fossil fuels, has led to more frequent and powerful extreme weather events. The recent heatwave in the Canary Islands left many areas extremely dry, heightening the risk of wildfires.
Access to the mountains, including the popular Mount Teide and the Teide Astrophysics Institute, has been closed to ensure public safety. However, Tenerife’s two airports continue to operate normally, according to Spanish airport operator Aena.
The wildfire situation remains uncertain, with residents like Celestino Suarez expressing concern and hoping for control over the blaze. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to take further action to protect the affected areas.
Please note that this article is based on available information at the time of writing and is subject to updates as the situation develops.
—
Contacts:
Corina Pons (Madrid-based Business Reporter)
Phone: +690725854
End