A tragic incident unfolded on Saturday as violent sea conditions struck Tenerife, leaving three people dead and at least fifteen others injured amid exceptionally high waves that have battered the Canary archipelago.
According to local emergency services, the island experienced waves reaching up to four metres in height, leading to widespread chaos along the coast. The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) had issued a red alert for the region, warning residents and tourists of dangerous maritime conditions brought on by a combination of strong Atlantic winds and unusual oceanic turbulence.
Rescue Operations and Casualties
Emergency teams were dispatched across multiple coastal areas of Tenerife, responding to a surge in distress calls from residents and visitors caught near the shoreline. Authorities confirmed that three individuals lost their lives, while over fifteen others sustained varying degrees of injuries, ranging from fractures and hypothermia to head trauma caused by debris and strong currents.
Local officials noted that several victims were swept away while walking or taking photographs along promenades, unaware of the rapidly rising tides. Rescue operations continued late into the evening, with firefighters, police, and maritime rescue units working together to secure affected zones and assist stranded individuals.
Infrastructure Damage and Evacuations
The storm surge caused significant coastal damage, particularly in Puerto de la Cruz, Los Cristianos, and Costa Adeje, where seaside restaurants, promenades, and hotel facilities sustained flooding and structural impacts. Authorities temporarily closed several beaches and waterfront roads due to safety risks.
Power outages and intermittent disruptions to communication networks were also reported in certain coastal areas. The Cabildo de Tenerife urged residents to avoid non-essential travel and to stay indoors until conditions improve.
Tourism and Local Response
As one of Spain’s most popular tourist destinations, Tenerife was crowded with visitors over the weekend. Hotel managers and local businesses have been coordinating with emergency services to assist affected tourists and ensure their safety.
“The sea conditions changed very suddenly. Within minutes, the waves became unpredictable and dangerous,” said Carlos Hernández, a local lifeguard in Puerto de la Cruz. “We’re used to rough seas, but this was unlike anything we’ve seen in years.”
Weather Outlook
Meteorologists have linked the extreme conditions to a powerful Atlantic depression moving west of the Canary Islands, producing strong gusts and dangerous swells. Forecasts suggest that rough seas will persist for the next 24 to 48 hours, though the intensity is expected to gradually diminish by midweek.
Authorities continue to urge caution and remind residents and tourists to avoid coastal areas until official warnings are lifted.
National and Regional Reactions
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed condolences to the victims’ families and praised the swift response of emergency personnel. “Our hearts go out to all those affected by this tragic event. The government is in close contact with Canary Islands authorities to provide all necessary support,” he said in a statement.
Regional leaders have called for a review of coastal safety protocols and improved early warning systems to better prepare for such extreme weather events, which experts say could become more frequent due to the effects of climate change.
