A severe weather alert has been issued for the Canary Islands this weekend, forecasting the arrival of exceptionally high waves. Spain’s state meteorological agency, AEMET, has cautioned about the risky blend of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and perilous sea conditions. This warning follows a recent tragic incident where four tourists lost their lives and another is still missing at the Charco de Isla Cangrejo natural pool in Tenerife.
Anticipated average wave heights surpass 4.8 meters (16ft), with the potential for swells to soar to a staggering 10 meters (33ft) at their peak. The hazardous coastal situation is expected to impact the region later today and persist through Saturday. The meteorological agency highlighted Saturday as a day of “especially dangerous” seas and “very intense” northerly winds.
Both tourists and locals have been advised to adhere to safety protocols and remain informed through official communication channels. Further updates are expected to be disseminated later today.
This news comes shortly after the tragic incident at the Charco de Isla Cangrejo natural pool where four tourists lost their lives due to massive waves on December 7. Despite official closures and police warnings, approximately 20 individuals disregarded safety precautions to swim at the popular tourist spot.
Emilio Navarro, mayor of the municipality of Santiago del Teide, expressed concerns on a local TV station about the challenge of educating people on ocean dangers. He mentioned incidents where people disregarded police warnings and even damaged safety tape to access restricted areas along the coast.
In a similar scenario in November, three individuals lost their lives, including a Dutch cruise passenger, when ten people were swept into the sea in Tenerife. The tragic event unfolded in the well-known resort of Puerto de la Cruz, situated in the northern part of the island, a favored holiday destination in the area.