The conflagration originated within a mountainous national park on the Spanish island and rapidly consumed an astonishing 4,450 acres in just 24 hours, posing formidable challenges for firefighting teams grappling with treacherous terrain.
The fire's perimeter now stretches across an extensive 14 miles, engulfing dry woodlands and spanning both sides of precipitous ravines near the prominent Mount Teide volcano – Spain's loftiest peak. Negotiating this rugged landscape has proven to be a daunting task, hindering access to the affected areas and intensifying the struggle to regain control.
Fernando Clavijo, the regional leader, delivered a somber assessment during an evening press conference held in Tenerife's capital, Santa Cruz. "The fire has evaded our containment efforts... the situation is dire," he acknowledged. Clavijo elucidated that the immediate strategy entails implementing defensive measures to impede the fire's progression and safeguard local residents' property. "Our principal goal tonight is to establish defensive perimeters to halt the fire's advancement," he emphasized.
As the crisis stemming from the relentless wildfire unfolds, mounting concerns resonate not only for the affected communities but also for the vital tourist sector. With a formidable firefight looming, the international community stands in anticipation, holding onto hope for a reversal in the battle against the unyielding inferno. (ILKHA)