A woman in her 50s has died after suffering heat-related health problems while hiking on Pico de la Zarza in Pájara, Fuerteventura, during the extreme temperatures affecting the Canary Islands.
The emergency occurred yesterday afternoon (Tuesday) while Fuerteventura was under an alert for extreme temperatures from the Canary Islands Government.
The Emergency and Security Coordination Centre (CECOES 112) received the call for help at 3:25pm, reporting that the woman was experiencing health problems due to the heat at Pico de la Zarza.
Emergency resources were immediately activated, including firefighters, the Canary Islands Emergency Service (SUC), Guardia Civil and Local Police.
Firefighters helped medical personnel reach the woman because of the location and terrain.
When paramedics reached her, she was already in cardiac arrest.
Medical teams carried out advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in an attempt to revive her, but despite their efforts they were unable to save her and confirmed her death at the scene.
Medical helicopter dispatched
Given the seriousness of the initial emergency call, the SUC mobilised a substantial medical response.
A medical helicopter, an advanced life-support ambulance and a basic life-support ambulance were assigned to the incident.
However, after the woman's death was confirmed, the medical helicopter, which was already flying towards the area, was stood down.
The Guardia Civil subsequently began the corresponding investigation and procedures surrounding the death, while Local Police officers also assisted with the emergency response.
The woman's nationality has not been officially confirmed.
Fuerteventura was under heat alert
The tragedy occurred during one of the hottest days of the current Canary Islands heat episode.
Fuerteventura was under an official high-temperature alert, while weather warnings were also in force because of the extreme conditions.
The Canary Islands Government had specifically advised people to reduce physical activity during the hottest hours of the day.
Authorities had also urged people to remain well hydrated and take additional precautions during prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
The heat was severe enough for the Canary Islands Government to suspend face-to-face classes across Fuerteventura on Tuesday, alongside schools in nine municipalities of Gran Canaria.
The Government has subsequently downgraded the maximum-temperature situation across the archipelago to a pre-alert from Tuesday evening as conditions begin to improve.
Popular hiking route
Pico de la Zarza is the highest point in Fuerteventura and a popular destination for hikers and visitors.
Located in the Jandía peninsula in the municipality of Pájara, the summit stands at just over 800 metres above sea level and offers extensive views across the south of the island.
However, routes through exposed Canary Islands landscapes can offer limited protection from direct sunshine, making weather conditions particularly important when planning walks.
Tuesday's incident highlights the potential dangers of strenuous outdoor activity during periods of extreme heat.
The Government's official advice during high-temperature episodes is to reduce physical exercise during the hottest part of the day, drink plenty of water and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
People should also pay particular attention to signs that they or somebody they are with may be becoming unwell.
Anyone encountering a serious medical emergency in the Canary Islands should call 112.
