05 Oct 2023 | 02:10 AM UTC
Spain: Emergency crews continue wildfire response in Tenerife as of early Oct. 5
Emergency crews continue wildfire response in Tenerife, Spain, as of early Oct. 5. Evacuation orders issued.
Event
Emergency crews are attempting to contain wildfires burning in Tenerife as of early Oct. 5. High temperatures and low humidity levels reactivated eight areas of the major wildfire that broke out between the municipalities of Arafo and Candelaria Aug. 15. The wildfire affected much of the northern part of the island, including parts of Arafo, Candelaria, Santa Ursula, La Victoria de Acentejo, El Rosario, La Orotava, El Sauzal, Tacoronte, Guimar, and La Matanza municipalities. Authorities brought the fire under control Sept. 11 but never extinguished it.
Authorities have issued evacuation orders for around 2,400 people in La Corujera, La Atalaya, and Vera del Barranco in Santa Ursula Municipality and another 600 in Pino Alto and La Florida in La Orotava Municipality. Pabellon Quiquira is serving as an emergency shelter.
Officials have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire. While conditions conducive to fire growth have eased, further hot and dry conditions or strong winds could result in additional wildfire growth in the coming hours and days. Authorities may issue additional evacuation orders at short notice, depending on the evolution of the fire.
The status of nearby roads will likely change over the coming hours and days; officials will likely close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operations. The return of residents will probably disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall will contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region. Power outages are possible if fires damage power infrastructure. Authorities may cut off power to parts of the affected area to aid firefighting efforts.
Advice
Heed any evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will likely cause increased congestion and delays. Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in a "go-bag" that can be easily accessed. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.
