THE PALM. The lava is advancing in La Palma, and the authorities have just ordered the inhabitants of some areas of the island that have been threatened by the eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano not to leave their homes. A long trail of fire, up to 12 meters high, proceeds leaving behind destruction with over 300 buildings and more than 150 hectares now buried. The president of the Canary Islands, Ángel Víctor Torres, speaks of a population “distressed” and “disconsolate” due to the enormous damage caused by the crater on this island of about 83,000 inhabitants: about 6,000 people evacuated from their homes in recent days, some of which they are already sure they have lost homes and land.
The order arrived from the authorities applies to the towns of Tajuya, Tacande de Abajo and part of Tacande de Arriba, fractions of the municipality of El Paso. Some effects of this eruption led to increased explosiveness and intense ash emission. Meanwhile, the airlines Binter and Canaryfly have canceled flights departing from or arriving in La Palma. Iberia also canceled a flight to La Palma. Binter also suspended those for the island of La Gomera. About 6,000 people remain evacuated on the island.
The Canary Institute of Volcanology said the eruption could continue for weeks. Meanwhile, we are waiting to understand if the lava will reach the sea or not, a phenomenon that could cause “columns of water vapor with acid gases” even if, in theory, “non-toxic”, authorities and experts reassure.
The Spanish government is working on “urgent measures” to help the islanders overcome daily difficulties such as those of those who have lost their homes. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said so. One of the first measures will be the approval in the Council of Ministers of the declaration of La Palma as a “disaster-stricken area”, a measure that unlocks fiscal and other aid.