Canary Islands issue pre‑alert for coastal hazards in Fuerteventura as strong swells approach

The Directorate General for Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands has declared a coastal‑phenomena alert across several islands of the archipelago and a pre‑alert status for the rest of the autonomous community, including Fuerteventura, based on the AEMET forecast and other available sources.

The declaration, issued on 24 February 2026 at 15:00, will take effect on Wednesday, 25 February at 16:00, within the framework of the Canary Islands Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA).

Forecast for Fuerteventura

According to the official communiqué, a north wind of force 7 (50–61 km/h) is expected, with occasional gusts reaching force 8 (62–74 km/h), especially in exposed areas and the channels between islands.

Regarding sea conditions, a combined north‑west swell with a background sea is forecast, potentially reaching 4 to 5 metres along open coasts in the north and west of the archipelago at the start of the episode. Along the remaining coastlines—such as those of Fuerteventura—waves could exceed 2 metres in height.

Wave periods may reach up to 18 seconds at the onset of the episode, decreasing later as wind‑driven sea becomes dominant.

Recommendations

In light of the situation, the Canary Islands government advises:

• Exercise extreme caution in coastal zones.
• Avoid walking on breakwaters, dikes, and reefs.
• Follow the instructions of emergency services and local authorities.

In case of emergency, remember to contact 1‑1‑2.

The Directorate General for Emergencies will continue to monitor the evolution of the phenomenon and will update information as meteorological data become available.