Rough seas put the Canary Islands on pre‑alert this weekend

A combined sea swell of 2‑3 m to 5 m is forecast along the northern coasts and the western shores of El Hierro, La Palma, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.

The Government of the Canary Islands has kept a pre‑alert for coastal phenomena across the entire archipelago since Friday, as the poor sea state persists through the weekend.

The decision is based on information supplied by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) together with other available sources, and on the application of the Canary Islands Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA), as detailed by the regional Directorate General of Emergencies in an official note.

In light of this situation, the regional executive reminds the population of the need to adopt appropriate measures to prevent and avoid risky situations throughout the islands, especially on the northern and western coasts of El Hierro, La Palma, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, and on the northern coasts of La Gomera, Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

Specifically, a combined sea swell of 2‑3.5 metres is expected on the open northern coasts and on the western shores of El Hierro, La Palma, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote over the next three days, accompanied by winds of force 2‑4 (6‑28 km/h).

RECOMMENDATIONS

The Government of the Canary Islands urges citizens to take extra precautions along the islands’ coasts and to follow self‑protection advice to avoid maritime risks:

• Stay away from piers, breakwaters, and any area close to the sea to prevent being struck or swept by the waves.
• Postpone planned nautical or sporting activities for the coming days.
• Do not swim at remote or unsupervised beaches.

By adhering to these guidelines, residents and visitors can help ensure their safety while the adverse sea conditions continue.