The most watched place on the planet is not Ukraine or Taiwan. It is on an island in the Canary Islands with thousands of sensors pointing to a lethal threat

February 5, 2026 at 03:31 PM UTC
Xataka
Original: ES
The most watched place on the planet is not Ukraine or Taiwan. It is on an island in the Canary Islands with thousands of sensors pointing to a lethal threat

The Canary Islands' La Palma has become an unlikely hub for advanced environmental monitoring following a significant volcanic eruption. This natural event has necessitated the deployment of sophisticated sensor networks to track potentially lethal gas emissions, transforming a tourist destination into a crucial site for scientific observation and public safety. The continuous data collection aims to manage ongoing environmental risks stemming from volcanic activity. Thousands of sensors are actively monitoring the island, particularly in areas like Puerto Naos, which was evacuated due to extreme levels of invisible, magmatic carbon dioxide (CO2). These readings, some reaching dangerous concentrations, are critical for understanding the long-term geological impact and determining when it is safe for residents and businesses to return. The data provides real-time insights into the subterranean gas migration from the Tajogaite volcano. The extensive monitoring system is vital for protecting the population and enabling the eventual recovery of affected areas. It underscores a growing reliance on digital technologies for environmental hazard assessment and response, with the collected data likely informing future urban planning and disaster preparedness strategies across vulnerable regions. This initiative highlights Europe's commitment to leveraging technology for citizen safety in the face of natural challenges.

Curated and translated by Europe Digital for our multilingual European audience.

Source Information

Publication: Xataka
Published: February 5, 2026 at 03:31 PM UTC
All rights remain with the original publisher.

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