The Balearic Government has activated Alert Foc 4, the highest level on the daily danger map, for this Wednesday, 9th July. Practically all of Mallorca is at extreme risk, except for Banyalbufar.
The Balearic Government has activated Alert Foc 4, the maximum level of wildfire risk, for practically all of Mallorca this Wednesday. The decision was made after assessing the meteorological conditions and the state of vegetation, which greatly increase the possibility of a fire being declared and spreading.
The daily danger map, prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment, places the entire island at level 4, except for the municipality of Banyalbufar. In Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, there are also areas with elevated risk, although at lower levels.
What Alert Foc 4 implies
Alert Foc 4 is the highest category of the wildfire prevention system in the Balearics. It is activated when there is a very high or extreme meteorological risk, or when particular circumstances detected in the danger analysis occur, regardless of whether there are specific meteorological warnings or not.
According to sources from the Government, under these conditions, any negligence can have serious consequences. Therefore, burning in forested areas is prohibited and it is recommended to avoid any activity that could generate a spark or flame.
Residents in rural and forest areas must exercise extreme caution. Machinery that can produce sparks, such as brush cutters or chainsaws, should not be used, nor should cigarette butts or matches be discarded. Campfires or barbecues should not be lit in the countryside or nearby.
Recommendations for the public
The Ministry insists that prevention is key. On days of maximum alert, like this Wednesday, the population is asked to act with the utmost caution.
“Any carelessness can cause a large-scale fire,” warn sources from the Government.
Additionally, authorities remind that risk conditions are reviewed daily and can vary depending on the evolution of the weather and the state of vegetation. Therefore, it is important to stay informed through official channels.
For residents in Mallorca, the recommendation is clear: if going on an outing or outdoor activity, avoid the hottest hours of the day, when the heat is most intense, and never leave a car on dry grass, as the exhaust can cause a fire.
Background and context
Last summer, Mallorca suffered several wildfires that ravaged hundreds of hectares, especially in the Serra de Tramuntana area. The activation of Alert Foc 4 aims to prevent similar situations from occurring again.
So far this year, the Ministry has recorded a number of fires below the average, but the current conditions of drought and high temperatures increase the risk. For this reason, the Government has reinforced surveillance and available firefighting resources.
Citizens can consult the daily danger map on the Government's website and follow the recommendations of Civil Protection. In case of any signs of smoke or fire, they should immediately call 112.
