First outdoor events cancelled in the Canary Islands due to soaring temperatures
A heatwave is sweeping across the Canary Islands, which are now under an official weather alert due to exceptionally high temperatures. As a result, the Antigua local council in Fuerteventura has become the first municipality to announce the suspension of all outdoor municipal activities.
The measure takes effect from this afternoon, Wednesday 16th July, and will remain in place until further notice or until the weather alert is downgraded.
Following guidelines issued by the Canary Islands Government, Antigua Council is acting in response to the activation of the regional alert for high temperatures. This means popular programmes such as the “Mañanas Deportivas” (Sports Mornings), planned for Thursday in Caleta de Fuste and Antigua, are now cancelled until new instructions are given by the emergency services.
The alert, issued by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET), categorises the situation as a significant risk due to maximum temperatures expected to reach, or even exceed, 34 to 38°C in many areas across the archipelago. This has triggered the activation of the Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena in the Canary Islands (PEFMA).
Meanwhile, the Tenerife Cabildo has also declared an emergency plan in anticipation of these extreme temperatures, reinforcing preventative measures to protect residents and visitors alike.
AEMET forecasts indicate that the intense heat is likely to persist over the weekend. Although some relief may come after, temperatures are expected to climb again shortly afterwards.
Health recommendations during the heatwave:
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak hours.
- Stay in cool, well-ventilated places whenever possible.
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Tourists and residents are advised to monitor official updates and adhere to any additional safety instructions issued by local authorities.
For more information on weather forecasts and emergency measures, visit the official websites of AEMET and the Government of the Canary Islands.
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