Spain has seen a surge in tourists flocking to witness the solar eclipse happening on Wednesday. However, the event coincides with high temperatures and an increased wildfire risk in the country, prompting concerns among authorities about potential fire damage from the influx of astrotourists.
Virginia Barcones, the secretary general for civil protection and emergencies at Spain’s Interior Ministry, emphasized the need to be cautious due to the recent spate of forest fires in the country. Spain has endured a challenging summer with numerous wildfires, burning over 603,000 acres (2,440 square kilometers) of land in about 400 fires this year, as reported by the European Forest Fire Information System.
To prevent additional fires during the eclipse, authorities are deploying 35,000 officers to monitor large outdoor gatherings and swiftly address any fire outbreaks that may occur, according to Barcones.
Spain is a prime viewing location for the solar eclipse, with the path of totality spanning across northern Russia, eastern Greenland, western Iceland, northeastern Portugal, and a significant portion of northern Spain, including the Balearic Islands. Approximately 15 million people live in the path of the eclipse, with Spain being the focal point.
Only those within the path of totality will witness the complete coverage of the sun by the moon. While Canada will experience a partial eclipse, viewers are advised to use eclipse glasses for eye protection.
This marks the first time in 120 years that a full solar eclipse is visible from mainland Spain, sparking a surge in travel interest.
Parts of Europe will see a total solar eclipse on Wednesday. Canada’s not so lucky, but parts of the country will get to see a partial eclipse.
Special measures have been put in place by Spanish authorities to manage the large crowds expected for the solar eclipse. Searches for accommodations along the path of totality have surged, with Valencia experiencing a 245% increase in searches compared to the previous year, according to Expedia Group.