The Canary Islands are facing another day of intense heat today, Tuesday 15th September, with temperatures forecast to reach or exceed 37°C in some areas, while calima continues to affect the archipelago.

The Canary Islands Government has upgraded the warning level to an official alert for maximum temperatures in Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and the east, south and west of Gran Canaria from 10:00am today.

The rest of the Canary Islands remain under a pre-alert for high temperatures as the current spell of hot weather intensifies.

According to AEMET, the highest temperatures are expected in the eastern islands (Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria), where thermometers could reach around 37°C, particularly in inland areas and on south-facing slopes.

Across the western province (Tenerife, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro), temperatures are expected to reach around 34°C in many areas, although locally higher values remain possible in the hottest and most exposed locations.

Calima continues across the islands

The heat is being accompanied by calima, which will remain noticeable across the Canary Islands during the first part of Tuesday.

The suspended Saharan dust is expected to be particularly significant across the eastern islands before gradually easing later in the day in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

Residents and visitors with respiratory problems are advised to take particular care while the calima persists, while everyone is being encouraged to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day and to remain well hydrated.

The combination of high temperatures, dry conditions and wind is also increasing the threat of wildfires.

An official wildfire-risk alert remains in force for El Hierro, La Gomera, western parts of La Palma, and higher inland areas and slopes facing south and west in Tenerife. In Gran Canaria, the alert applies to areas above 400 metres.

Other affected areas of Tenerife, La Palma and Gran Canaria remain under pre-alert conditions.

Hot conditions across the archipelago

In Tenerife, the warmest conditions are expected particularly across southern and western areas, while Gran Canaria will experience some of the most intense heat in the east, south and west of the island.

Lanzarote and Fuerteventura will also see very high temperatures, particularly away from exposed coastal areas.

Conditions will generally remain dry, with the combination of heat and Saharan dust potentially making it feel particularly uncomfortable during the afternoon.

At sea, winds will initially be light and variable before strengthening from the north or northeast during the afternoon and evening. A northerly swell of around one to two metres is forecast.

People spending the day at beaches, swimming pools or outdoor attractions are advised to use adequate sun protection, drink plenty of water and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunshine during the hottest hours.

The Government also recommends checking on elderly or vulnerable people and keeping homes as cool as possible, particularly during the afternoon.