La Palma wildfire affects 4,500 hectares and more than 2,000 residents had to be evicted
The president of the Canary Islands, Fernando Clavijo, informed the media that the fire in La Palma, which affects the municipalities of Tijarafe, Puntagorda and Garafía, is now considered out of control.
The fire that broke out this morning in the El Pinar area, in the La Palma municipality of Puntagorda, already affects 4,500 hectares and more than 2,000 people have been evicted. The flames have approached the area of the Caldera de Taburiente National Park and the Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory.
After evaluating the situation of the fire, the responsible authorities have ordered the evacuation of the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory as a precautionary measure, according to the Canary Islands Institute of Astrophysics (IAC).
The fire continues to advance due to strong gusts of wind, as well as the irregularity and dryness of the terrain, which encourage its advance.
The president of the Canary Islands pointed out that the extinction work has been intensified before nightfall and before the aerial means are withdrawn during the night. Right now, there are 10 air resources, of which 5 are operating: two 1,500-liter medium-capacity helicopters, two 900-liter light helicopters, and a coordination helicopter. There is also a water bomber plane on the way to La Palma, which will arrive tomorrow.
The fire is close to Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory
Aerial view of the wildfire in La Palma from the Guardia Civil helicopter
