'Out-of-control' wildfire engulfs forests on Spain's holiday island of Tenerife

Following severe heatwaves in the Canary Islands, the risk of wildfires has increased. Consequently, an ‘out-of-control’ wildfire has spread to the forest areas of Spain’s Tenerife Island. Officials confirm that it has burned around 1,800 hectares so far.

The blaze began on Tuesday evening, originating from a nature reserve on the northeast coast. Access to Mount Teide volcano, Spain’s highest peak, has been cut off. To exacerbate the situation, secondary fires have also erupted.

Officials have closed roads and are evacuating villages due to the Tenerife wildfire.

Evacuation Operations Underway

Around 150 people have been evacuated from more than five villages (Arrate, Chivisaya, Media Montana, Ajafona, and Las Lagunetas) in the northeast of the island so far. This area primarily consists of farms and holiday homes.

Approximately 250 firefighters are working to protect people and extinguish the ‘out-of-control’ wildfire. The firefighters’ team is supported by 13 planes and helicopters.

Official Statement

On Wednesday, the head of the regional government, Fernando Clavijo, stated that the situation is not very positive and the fire is out of control. He added that their goal is to halt the wildfire from advancing.

Montserrat Roman, head of the archipelago’s civil protection service, urges people to follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs).

FAQs
Q1:How did the wildfire start on Spain’s holiday island of Tenerife?
The wildfire on Tenerife Island started after the Canary Islands recently experienced severe heatwaves.

Q2:How many villages have been evacuated on Tenerife?
Nearly a dozen villages have been evacuated, displacing over 150 people.

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Q3:How much area has been affected by the wildfire on Tenerife?
Officials have confirmed that close to 1,800 hectares of forest have been burned due to the massive blaze on Tenerife Island.

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