PHOTOS: The forest fire in La Palma continues to burn out of control

Twenty-four hours after a fire was declared in the pine forests of La Palma, it continues to burn and spread uncontrollably with 4,000 people now evacuated from their homes, and covering 4,765 hectares (11,775 acres), according to the last update from the Canary Islands Government last night.

SEAPLANES: 400 troops from various emergency service resources are working on the fire, and the first FOCA seaplane arrived yesterday evening and has already made its first water discharges. These will resume at daylight this morning when it will be joined by a second plane that has been flying through the night from its base in mainland Spain.

FLIGHT DISRUPTIONS: The huge flames are causing large columns of smoke over the island, which because of the wind, have caused inter-island flight disruptions to La Palma.

Flights were grounded yesterday by Binter and CanaryFly and could only take off at certain times when conditions allowed. Travellers to and from La Palma are advised to check their flight status before going to the airport.

ALERTS: The government are using mobile phone alerts to warn anyone who is considered to be in the ‘danger zone’ of the fire. These alerts are advising them of the evolution of the fire and if they have to prepare to leave their homes as it is heading in their direction.

EVACUEES: Over 4,000 people have been evacuated now from their homes, shelters, residences for the elderly, and the Roque de Los Muchachos Observatory. Most of these are from the area of Puntagorda and the town of Tirajafe. The Red Cross has set up camp beds in municipal sports centres as temporary accommodation for those affected.