Canary Islands Issue Coastal Pre-Alert for Five Islands Due to Strong Winds and 3-Metre Waves
Canary Islands Issue Coastal Pre-Alert for Five Islands Due to Strong Winds and 3-Metre Waves
CANARY ISLANDS – The Directorate General for Emergencies of the Canary Islands Government has officially declared a coastal pre-alert across five islands starting Wednesday 5th August. Activated under the archipelago’s adverse weather emergency plan (PEFMA) following AEMET forecasts, the warning warns of hazardous sea conditions and powerful trade winds.
Strengthening north-easterly winds will be particularly severe within the channels between islands, where gusts are expected to reach Beaufort Force 7 (50 to 61 km/h).
Primary Areas Affected by Heavy Swells
The strongest winds and rough seas are forecast along specific coastal stretches:
- Tenerife: South-east coastline.
- Gran Canaria: Western and south-east shores.
- La Palma: North-west and south-east slopes.
- La Gomera: Western coastline.
- El Hierro: North-east sector.
These conditions are expected to produce combined wave heights of 2 to 3 metres, creating powerful undertows and dangerous rip currents along south and west-facing beaches.
Summer Safety Precautions for Beachgoers
With high summer occupancy across resort areas, emergency services urge extra caution for swimmers, boaters, and coastal visitors. Guests staying in holiday apartments in los cristianos or traveling around southern beaches are advised to pay close attention to flag warnings and stick to guarded bathing areas.
Key safety steps include: avoiding breakwaters, piers, or wet rocks; refraining from taking selfies near breaking waves; postponing water sports activities; and calling emergency services on 112 without delay if trouble arises.
