The recent undersea eruptions just off the island of El Hierro have served as a timely reminder of the volcanic nature of the Canary Islands. The dark sand and rugged coastline particularly at La Caleta and the mountains and barrancos that make Adeje such a beautiful place to visit are further reminders of how the islands were formed and the constant seismic movements, normally too small and remote to register.

It’s perfect timing for a series of special talks to arrive in Adeje. Una Ventana Volcanica En El Atlantico (A Volcanic Window In The Atlantic) will take place at the Adeje Cultural Centre on 8, 9 and 10 November at 8.30 pm. This is not a knee jerk reaction to recent events but the latest in a year long tour of this roadshow designed to inform and educate about the nature of the islands and the procedures that are in place in case of an eruption.

The talks are free and have already been to all six other Canary Islands. The last eruption in Tenerife was in 1909 at Chinyero when despite great alarm and evacuation of villagers no deaths were recorded. One of the main volcanic monitoring stations in the world is at ITER in Granadilla and their scientists have helped to set up the touring series of talks. Despite the increased media coverage El Hierro has seen no real damage from the latest incidents, the fishing village of La Restinga has been at the forefront with the 500 inhabitants evacuated for their safety but the risk level has dropped considerably although major surveys are now underway.