La Laguna Enhances Coastal Surveillance Ahead of Upcoming High Tide

In anticipation of high tides, La Laguna is taking proactive measures to ensure public safety. The local government is focused on safeguarding residents and visitors alike as they prepare for potential challenges posed by the changing weather conditions.

Mayor Takes Charge of Safety Coordination

On Saturday afternoon, Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez convened a crucial safety coordination meeting at the CECOPAL to evaluate the municipality’s situation following the recent impact of Storm Emilia. While the day saw relatively few incidents, the storm’s aftermath included reports of fallen branches and downed electrical lines, a direct result of the strong winds that swept through the area. The mayor’s leadership during this meeting underscored the importance of community preparedness and responsiveness in the face of natural disturbances.

Commitment to Public Safety and Community Engagement

During the meeting, Gutiérrez praised the collaborative efforts of various municipal departments in addressing the incidents that arose from the storm. He emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant as weather conditions evolve, particularly in coastal regions that are more susceptible to the effects of high tides. The mayor urged residents to adhere to the safety guidelines issued by the council and to stay informed through official communication channels, which are vital for ensuring public awareness and safety.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Councillors for Public Safety Badel Albelo, Municipal Services Fran Hernández, Urban Planning Adolfo Cordobés, Social Welfare María Cruz, Environment Domingo Galván, and Deputy Police Commissioner Jesús González. Their presence highlighted the unified approach taken by the municipality to tackle the challenges posed by the storm and the anticipated high tides.

Heightened Police Presence Along the Coastline

In response to the expected high tide, police patrols along the coast have been significantly increased. The strong waves have already caused damage to the San Juanito pathway in Punta del Hidalgo, which has been closed since the previous day to prevent accidents. Local police have had to intervene with individuals who ignored warning signs and ventured into hazardous areas, emphasizing the need for public compliance with safety advisories. The Public Safety Department continues to urge the public to avoid locations that may be impacted by the sea, reinforcing the message that safety must come first.

Emergency Services Mobilized for Community Support

The Emergency Coordination Centre has been actively responding to reports of sewage overflow from manholes, a situation that municipal services and personnel from the mixed company Teidagua have addressed promptly. This swift response is crucial in maintaining public health and safety. While no incidents have been reported in the Anaga settlements, coordination with the Tenerife Council and other municipalities is ongoing to ensure that any further intervention is ready if necessary. This proactive approach demonstrates the municipality’s commitment to community welfare.

Currently, the Social Welfare Department has not identified a need for alternative accommodation for residents, although up to 38 spaces are available if required. The campsite in Punta del Hidalgo has been closed to new users, but caravans already on-site from other islands have been permitted to remain after a thorough risk assessment was conducted. This careful consideration reflects the municipality’s dedication to balancing safety with the needs of residents and visitors.

Precautionary Measures and Infrastructure Assessment

Municipal Services have implemented precautionary measures by removing approximately 200 decorative Christmas lights, either due to potential hazards or damage sustained during the storm. This action is part of a broader strategy to ensure that all public spaces remain safe for use. Additionally, security reinforcements have been applied to other structures in the area to mitigate any risks associated with the high tides.

A review of risk-prone areas, particularly ravines, has shown normal conditions, indicating that ongoing works on the ravine of La Carnicería have not been disrupted by the storm. This assessment is reassuring for residents living near these areas, as it suggests that the municipality is effectively managing the risks associated with severe weather events.

Key points

• Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez led a safety meeting to assess the impact of Storm Emilia.
• Police patrols have been intensified along the coast due to expected high tides.
• Emergency services addressed sewage overflow issues promptly.
• No incidents reported in Anaga settlements; coordination with Tenerife Council continues.
• Social Welfare has 38 accommodation spaces available if needed.
• 200 Christmas lights were removed as a precaution or due to damage.
• Normal conditions reported in risk-prone areas, including ravines.