A forest fire is currently ravaging the Spanish island of La Palma, leading to the evacuation of thousands of residents and tourists, including British visitors, from the Canary Islands. The wildfire has consumed approximately 4,500 hectares (11,100 acres) of land, with emergency services working diligently to combat the blaze. Fernando Clavijo, president of the Canary Islands, emphasizes that the priority is to save lives, even though some individuals are reluctant to leave their homes. Clavijo acknowledges the potential for an increase in the number of evacuees, depending on the ability to control the strong winds fueling the fire.
The wildfire started in El Pinar de Puntagorda, a wooded area in the northern part of La Palma, and has spread south towards the settlement of Tijarafe. Around 400 emergency service personnel, including 150 Spanish firefighters, are currently engaged in firefighting efforts. Additional resources, including seaplanes, have been deployed to assist in controlling the blaze.
Spanish President Pedro Sánchez has expressed solidarity with those affected by the fire and offered support to La Palma’s authorities. The island previously faced a volcanic eruption two years ago, resulting in significant property and farmland damage. While no injuries or deaths have been reported in relation to the current forest fire, the situation remains severe.
The wildfire occurs amidst a heatwave sweeping across southern Europe, with temperatures surpassing 40 degrees Celsius. Italy has issued warnings as temperatures are expected to exceed 48 degrees Celsius in Sardinia. In Greece, temperatures have reached 40 degrees Celsius, prompting the temporary closure of the Acropolis in Athens during the hottest hours to ensure the safety of visitors. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary precautions to protect residents and tourists from the extreme heat.
