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Around 9,000 people have been evacuated from Gran Canaria in the Canary Islands due to massive wildfires.
The fires, which started on Saturday, have been described as ‘an unprecedented environmental tragedy’ by authorities.
According to reports, weather conditions including high temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity, are making it more difficult to tame the blaze.
‘Out of control’
Officials say around 16 planes and helicopters have been deployed to tackle the flames, along with 700 firefighters including 200 from the military.
So far the fire has spread through the island’s Tamadaba natural park. It has not yet reached residential areas or tourist hotspots.
“The fire is not contained nor stabilized or controlled,” Canary Islands regional president Angel Victor Torres said, adding that he has requested assistance from the Spanish central government as well as the Red Cross.
