17/05/2019 (Agence Europe) – European solidarity is at work to help Spain fight forest fires in Tenerife, in the Canary Islands. At the request of the Spanish authorities, the EU has activated its Copernicus programme and is “providing satellite maps for the forest fire affecting Mount Teide National Park”, said Christos Stylianides, European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management, on Thursday 16 May evening on his Twitter account. The fire, which broke out on Sunday in southern Tenerife, has reached this natural park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The satellite maps are very accurate and will make it possible to locate and measure the damage. “The EU stands ready to provide further help”, the Commissioner said. Assistance can indeed be mobilised through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, if requested by the Spanish authorities. (AN)