The Coordination Centre for Insular Operations Against Forest Fires (CECOPIN) mobilised two aerial units following the outbreak of a fire yesterday (Saturday) in a challenging terrain for ground resources in Buenavista del Norte in Tenerife.
According to the Emergency Services Coordination Centre (CECOES) the fire was located on the Ladera del Morro in the Masca area, not far from where the search for Jay Slater is taking place.
These two helicopters managed to control the fire and stop it from spreading by dropping water on it from the air until crews on the ground could get close enough and help extinguish as quickly as possible.
CECOES has reminded the public that the Canary Islands are still at pre-alert status for the risk of forest fires, activated by the Government at the beginning of June due to the temperatures, humidity and dryness of the terrain.
The large-scale search operation organised by the Guardia Civil began yesterday morning in the Masca area to locate the missing Brit, last seen on June 17th.
The search operation which included volunteers with mountain experience started at 9:00am until daylight disappeared. The starting point was the Mirador de la Cruz de Hilda, from where they systematically combed through the numerous paths, trails, and ravines in Masca.
Around 30 volunteers joined police resources, all working in a coordinated effort to find any trace of the young Brit. The challenging terrain and the recent fire incident have added to the complexity of the search efforts.
The authorities have urged the public to be cautious and report any information that might assist in locating Jay Slater. The community remains hopeful as the search progresses despite the hurdles presented by the rugged landscape, the harsh conditions, and the fire outbreak.
