The Canary Islands are preparing for a large-scale emergency exercise on Friday, September 26, 2025, designed to test how the region would respond to a volcanic eruption. This drill, taking place on Tenerife, has sparked questions among both locals and tourists about whether Mount Teide, the island’s iconic volcano, may be showing signs of unrest.
Officials emphasize that there is no imminent eruption, but the decision to run a mass alert system highlights Tenerife’s proactive approach to disaster preparedness. The initiative is being coordinated by Spain’s Department of Territorial Policy and Water through the Directorate General of Emergencies, in partnership with the Cabildo of Tenerife.
During the exercise, mobile phone users across the island—including thousands of international tourists—will receive test alerts through the ES-Alert system, Spain’s nationwide emergency notification network. This system, already used in recent wildfire emergencies, ensures that vital safety messages reach everyone quickly, regardless of whether they are residents or visitors.
Purpose of the Drill: Safety for Locals and Tourists
The goal of the volcanic drill is straightforward: to measure how efficiently the Canary Islands can warn and guide both locals and visitors in the event of a volcanic eruption. Tenerife is one of Spain’s most popular destinations, drawing millions of travelers each year who are captivated by its year-round sunshine, beaches, and natural landscapes.
From 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, simulated alerts will be sent by the 112 Emergency Coordination Centre (CECOES). These alerts will appear as loud messages marked with the word “TEST,” accompanied by vibrations and alarms. Tourists whose devices are set to English will automatically receive the notifications in English, helping avoid confusion for non-Spanish speakers.
Officials stress that these alerts are purely simulated and require no action from the public. However, the drill is essential in ensuring that everyone on the island knows what to expect in the unlikely case of a volcanic eruption.
Understanding Mount Teide’s Volcanic Activity
At the heart of Tenerife lies Mount Teide, a stratovolcano that dominates the island’s landscape. Standing at 3,718 meters, it is the highest peak in Spain and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Although Mount Teide is considered active, its last eruption occurred in 1909. Since then, scientists have closely monitored the volcano for changes in seismic activity, gas emissions, and ground deformation—all indicators of pressure building beneath the surface. Experts estimate that there is around a 40% chance of an eruption in the next 50 years, but stress that there is no immediate danger.
For travelers, this monitoring should offer reassurance rather than alarm. Authorities are taking every precaution to ensure safety, and the upcoming drill is simply one more step in a long tradition of preparedness.
Impact on Tourists: What to Expect During the Drill
Tourists currently visiting Tenerife may be surprised to see unusual alerts on their mobile phones during the drill. The messages, however, will be clearly marked as tests.
Visitors are advised to stay calm and continue their activities as normal. For safety reasons, those driving at the time of receiving an alert should pull over before reading the message. The system is designed to be clear, fast, and multilingual, ensuring minimal disruption to everyday life.
Phones running Android 11 or higher and iOS 15.6 or higher will automatically receive the alerts, as long as the emergency notification settings are enabled.
Canary Islands Reassure Travelers Amid Global Attention
The volcanic drill has attracted significant international attention, particularly because of Tenerife’s importance to the tourism industry. Despite concerns raised by news headlines, officials underline that Tenerife remains a safe destination.
The seismic activity currently being recorded does not signal an imminent eruption. Instead, the increased monitoring and safety measures highlight the island’s commitment to protecting both residents and tourists. Visitors are encouraged to follow any official instructions but otherwise enjoy their stay without worry.
Volcanic Landscapes as a Tourism Attraction
Far from deterring visitors, Tenerife’s volcanic heritage is one of its biggest attractions. Each year, thousands of travelers explore Teide National Park, a landscape shaped by centuries of volcanic activity.
The park offers hiking trails through ancient lava fields, guided tours explaining the geological history of the island, and even a cable car ride that takes visitors near the summit of Mount Teide. On clear days, the views stretch across the Atlantic, making it one of the most breathtaking experiences in Europe.
The volcanic environment also contributes to Tenerife’s unique culture and gastronomy. Local wines, grown in volcanic soil, and traditional dishes made with island-grown ingredients are among the many ways visitors can experience the island’s deep connection to its geology.
Looking Ahead: Preparedness and Peace of Mind
The upcoming volcano drill serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness in a region shaped by natural forces. Tenerife’s proactive steps ensure that, even in the unlikely event of an eruption, both residents and tourists will receive timely information and guidance.
For travelers, the key takeaway is reassurance: Tenerife remains one of the world’s most enchanting destinations, where volcanic landscapes, vibrant culture, and modern safety measures combine to create a unique and secure holiday experience.
With the ES-Alert system fully operational and authorities committed to ongoing monitoring, tourists can explore Tenerife’s wonders with confidence. Whether marveling at the peak of Mount Teide, enjoying the island’s golden beaches, or strolling through historic towns, visitors can rest assured that their safety remains a top priority.
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