Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is famous for its beautiful beaches, pleasant climate, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. The island’s most iconic landmark is Mount Teide, a towering stratovolcano that attracts millions of visitors each year. While the volcano is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of natural beauty, it is also a reminder of the island’s geological activity.
In recent weeks, Tenerife has gained global attention after authorities announced that they will activate the largest volcanic emergency drill in the island’s history. While some headlines have described this as “potentially scary,” officials emphasize that this is a safety exercise rather than a response to an imminent eruption.
This comprehensive guide explores the upcoming drill, the reasons behind it, Tenerife’s volcanic history, expert opinions, and what both tourists and residents should know about staying safe on an island shaped by fire.
Understanding the Upcoming Drill
Authorities in Tenerife, in collaboration with European agencies, have organized a large-scale volcanic preparedness exercise. This drill, scheduled between September 22 and 28, will involve multiple emergency units and government bodies.
The exercise will center on the town of Garachico, located in the north of the island. Garachico was chosen for its historical significance; in 1706, the town was largely destroyed by a volcanic eruption.
Key elements of the drill include:
-
Mass alert system: All Tenerife residents will receive a mobile phone notification simulating an eruption warning on September 26.
-
Evacuations: Some areas will be evacuated as part of the practice scenario.
-
Emergency simulations: In addition to volcanic activity, other scenarios such as infrastructure damage and rescue missions will be tested.
-
Participation: Around 1,000 people, including scientists, government officials, and the Military Emergency Unit, will be mobilized.
-
International oversight: European experts will monitor the drill as part of the EU MODEX project, ensuring technical accuracy and evaluating Tenerife’s readiness.
Why Tenerife Is Conducting This Drill
Rosa Dávila, the President of Tenerife’s government, explained that while the island is not facing an immediate volcanic emergency, preparation is essential. The Canary Islands are volcanic in origin, and history shows that eruptions, although infrequent, are part of their natural cycle.
Dávila emphasized:
“We must not forget that we are volcanically active islands. We are not at all facing an imminent situation of volcanic emergency, neither in the short nor in the medium term.”
The goal of the drill is to strengthen readiness—ensuring that residents, authorities, and visitors know how to respond in the event of real volcanic activity.
What Scientists Are Saying
Recent seismic activity on Tenerife has fueled speculation. Small underground tremors, also known as seismic swarms, have been detected in recent weeks. While some may worry that these tremors signal magma movement, experts stress otherwise.
-
Lucca D’Auria, Director of Volcanic Monitoring at Involcan, explained that the activity is linked to the island’s hydrothermal system, not to rising magma.
-
According to D’Auria, the swarms are normal in a volcanically active environment:
“These seismic swarms fit within normality on an island with a volcanically active system, which although at the moment is asleep, sooner or later it will wake up.”
In other words, Tenerife is experiencing natural background activity common to volcanic regions. There is no immediate danger of eruption.
Tenerife’s Volcanic History
Understanding Tenerife’s geology provides context for the drill.
Mount Teide
At 3,718 meters (12,198 feet), Mount Teide is Spain’s highest peak and the third tallest volcanic structure in the world when measured from its ocean floor base. Though currently dormant, Teide last erupted in 1909 in an event known as the Chinyero eruption.
Garachico’s Past
The town of Garachico, where the upcoming drill is focused, suffered devastating consequences in 1706 when lava flows destroyed its harbor. That eruption reshaped the town and serves as a historical reminder of the island’s vulnerability.
Canary Islands Eruptions
Volcanic activity is not unique to Tenerife. The La Palma eruption in 2021, lasting over 80 days, displaced thousands of residents and destroyed infrastructure. That event reinforced the importance of preparedness across the Canary Islands.
Why Tourists Should Pay Attention
Tenerife welcomes millions of visitors each year, many of whom are unfamiliar with volcanic environments. While the island remains safe, tourists should be aware of the upcoming drill and understand what to expect.
-
September 26 Alert: Visitors on the island will receive a simulated emergency message on their phones. This is part of the drill and does not signal real danger.
-
Possible Disruptions: Some areas, especially near Garachico, may experience temporary evacuations or road closures during the exercise.
-
Safety First: Tourists should follow instructions from local authorities and remain calm during the drill.
The goal is not to alarm but to ensure that everyone—residents and visitors alike—knows how to respond in case of a real emergency.
The Importance of Emergency Preparedness
Why conduct such a large-scale drill? History and science provide the answer.
-
Unpredictability of Volcanoes: While monitoring technology has advanced, predicting the exact timing of eruptions remains challenging.
-
Tourism Dependency: Tenerife’s economy relies heavily on tourism. Ensuring visitor safety is crucial to maintaining confidence.
-
Community Safety: By practicing evacuations and alerts, communities build resilience and reduce panic in real crises.
-
Learning from La Palma: The 2021 eruption highlighted the need for clear communication, rapid response, and well-coordinated evacuations.
How the EU MODEX Project Supports Tenerife
The MODEX project, funded by the European Union, provides training and support for large-scale emergency management. Tenerife’s volcanic drill falls under this framework, giving the island access to international expertise.
Benefits include:
-
Real-time evaluation by European emergency specialists.
-
Advanced monitoring technology.
-
Recommendations for improving readiness in future scenarios.
What to Do If You’re Visiting During the Drill
If you are traveling to Tenerife between September 22 and 28, here are some practical tips:
-
Expect Notifications: You may receive a text or phone alert on September 26. This is part of the exercise.
-
Stay Informed: Follow updates from official sources such as the Tenerife government or Involcan.
-
Respect Evacuations: If you are in an area participating in the drill, cooperate with authorities.
-
Plan Ahead: Check whether roads, attractions, or accommodations near Garachico are affected during the exercise.
-
Stay Calm: Remember, this is a simulation designed to enhance safety.
Addressing Misconceptions
Some media reports have used dramatic language to describe Tenerife’s drill, sparking unnecessary concern among tourists. Officials stress that:
-
There is no imminent eruption.
-
The drill is a preparedness exercise only.
-
Seismic activity is within normal background levels for volcanic islands.
By clarifying these points, authorities aim to reduce confusion and ensure the drill is viewed as a proactive safety measure, not a reaction to crisis.
Looking at the Bigger Picture: Volcano Safety Worldwide
Tenerife’s approach reflects a global trend in disaster preparedness. Countries with active volcanoes—such as Japan, Iceland, and Italy—regularly conduct drills to safeguard residents and visitors.
These exercises provide valuable insights into evacuation routes, communication systems, and public behavior during emergencies. Tenerife’s drill contributes to this international body of knowledge.
Final Thoughts: A Safer Future for Tenerife
Tenerife’s decision to stage its largest volcanic emergency drill is a testament to the island’s commitment to safety. For residents, it reinforces community resilience. For tourists, it demonstrates that local authorities prioritize their well-being.
Volcanoes are part of Tenerife’s identity, shaping both its breathtaking landscapes and its history. While eruptions are rare, preparation ensures that the island remains a safe and welcoming destination for millions of visitors each year.
The drill in Garachico is not a cause for alarm—it is a proactive step that highlights the importance of planning, science, and collaboration. By learning from the past and preparing for the future, Tenerife sets an example for how volcanic regions can balance natural beauty with community safety.
Key Takeaways
-
Tenerife will conduct its largest volcanic emergency drill between September 22–28, with a simulated alert sent to all residents on September 26.
-
The drill will involve 1,000 participants, including government officials, scientists, and the Military Emergency Unit.
-
Seismic activity in recent weeks is normal for volcanic islands and not linked to imminent eruption.
-
The exercise focuses on preparedness and safety, especially in Garachico, a town with historical ties to volcanic eruptions.
-
Tourists visiting during this period should remain calm, follow instructions, and expect temporary disruptions.
Conclusion
For tourists and residents alike, Tenerife’s volcanic emergency drill is an opportunity to build awareness and confidence. Rather than signaling danger, it highlights the island’s proactive approach to managing natural risks.
Mount Teide may dominate the skyline as a reminder of Tenerife’s volcanic origins, but with science, preparation, and international cooperation, the island remains a safe and vibrant destination. Visitors can continue to enjoy its beaches, culture, and landscapes, reassured that authorities are committed to their safety.