Summer forest-fire warning for holiday hotspot

EnvironmentTravel
4 Jun 2025 • 8:25 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • A pre-alert warning has been issued for the Canary Islands due to the increased risk of forest fires during the summer.
  • The islands on pre-alert include El Hierro, La Palma, La Gomera, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria, with measures in place until further notice.
  • The Canary Islands' Mediterranean climate and winds from the Sahara desert contribute to a medium to high risk of forest fires.
  • More than 2,000 firefighters are on standby to tackle any fires in the western islands and Gran Canaria.
  • In 2023, Tenerife experienced its worst wildfires in 40 years, leading to the evacuation of over 12,000 people; the government urges precautions to prevent fires, such as avoiding throwing cigarette butts and fireworks near forests.

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