A state of emergency has been declared on the Spanish holiday island of Gran Canaria due to a significant oil slick threatening popular beaches. The slick, which has already closed the beaches of San Borondón and Palos in Telde, was caused by the accidental spill of approximately three tons of fuel oil during a refueling operation at the Virgen del Pino dock in the Port of La Luz, Las Palmas, early Thursday morning.
The oil slick, measuring about 2.5 kilometers long and 400 meters wide, is advancing at a rate of 0.5 nautical miles per hour, driven by winds and currents, and is expected to reach other sensitive coastal areas. Local authorities are particularly concerned about its potential impact on the Jinámar desalination plant and various natural reserves, including Jinámar, Tufia, and Punta de la Sal.
Raúl García Brink, the island’s environment councillor, convened a crisis meeting with representatives from affected municipalities to coordinate the response efforts. The Cabildo (island council) has mobilized resources to contain the spill and mitigate environmental damage. Maritime Rescue teams are actively working to disperse and evaporate the oil slick, while aerial surveillance is being conducted using helicopters and drones.
In light of the emergency, the Telde City Council has restricted access to affected beaches and is providing updates through social media. Mayor Juan Antonio Peña has emphasized the need for accountability, stating that such incidents are preventable and must not happen again.
The Canary Islands government has raised the Territorial Emergency Plan to emergency level 2, indicating the seriousness of the situation and the need for immediate action to protect the coastal environment and public health.
Officials are on high alert as the slick continues to move towards the coastline, posing risks to local wildlife and ecosystems. The situation is being closely monitored, and further beach closures may be implemented if the slick reaches additional areas. The local government is urging residents and tourists to stay informed and avoid affected beaches until the situation is under control.
