La Laguna Activates Emergency Coordination Amid Storm Emilia

On December 12, the Town Council of La Laguna took decisive action by activating the Local Administration Coordination Centre (CECOPAL) in anticipation of the severe weather conditions brought on by Storm Emilia. This proactive measure aims to safeguard the community and mitigate the potential impacts of the storm.

Public Safety Measures and Facility Closures

The decision to activate CECOPAL was prompted by a weather alert issued by the General Directorate of Emergencies in the Canary Islands. The alert warned of impending strong winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal disturbances that could pose significant risks to residents and infrastructure. Following consultations with local police and civil protection representatives, Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez signed a decree to implement a series of precautionary measures aimed at ensuring public safety.

As part of these safety measures, all public facilities in La Laguna will remain closed, and municipal activities—including leisure, sports, and cultural events—are suspended until further notice. This decision is particularly impactful for outdoor events and gatherings that could attract large crowds, as safety is the top priority during this period of inclement weather.

Specific closures include various sports and cultural venues, municipal parks, community centers, and facilities that cater to senior citizens. Additionally, the Cruz del Carmen car park located in the Anaga area, along with natural swimming pools and coastal areas, will be shut down to prevent any potential accidents or injuries.

Proactive Measures and Community Monitoring

In light of the storm’s anticipated effects, municipal maintenance and cleaning services are being significantly enhanced to address any issues that may arise. The Works and Infrastructure Department is closely monitoring ongoing construction projects that could be affected by the heavy rainfall, particularly in vulnerable areas such as Barranco de La Carnicería.

To further prepare for the storm, the mixed company Teidagua has initiated special cleaning operations for storm drain catchpits, aiming to prevent blockages in the sewer systems that could lead to flooding. The Environment Department has also ramped up efforts to clean waterways and ravines, thereby reducing the risk of flooding and ensuring that drainage systems function effectively during the storm.

In response to the adverse weather forecasts, the Town Council has increased surveillance along coastal regions to monitor conditions and ensure the safety of residents. Additionally, the Social Welfare Department has postponed the Volunteer Market that was scheduled for the upcoming weekend in Plaza del Cristo, along with all activities at senior centers, nursery schools, and other related services, to prioritize community safety during this critical time.

Construction Site Safety Protocols

The Urban Planning Department has issued reminders to owners of ongoing construction projects about the importance of adhering to safety protocols during the storm. They are advised to deactivate cranes and secure them in safe positions to prevent accidents. Anemometers must be checked to ensure they are functioning correctly, with signals being emitted at specified wind speeds. Crane operations should be halted if continuous alerts are triggered, as safety is paramount in such conditions.

It is essential to avoid attaching any foreign objects to cranes, such as signs or flags, which could become hazardous in windy conditions. Furthermore, scaffolding, fences, and other structures must be secured to prevent them from shifting or collapsing, thereby ensuring the safety of both workers and the public during the storm.

Key points

• La Laguna activated CECOPAL on December 12 due to Storm Emilia.
• Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez signed a decree for precautionary measures.
• All public facilities and municipal activities are suspended until further notice.
• Specific closures include sports venues, parks, and senior citizen centers.
• Teidagua conducted cleaning of storm drains to prevent blockages.
• Increased surveillance along coastal areas has been implemented.
• Construction safety protocols have been reinforced for ongoing projects.