Canary Islands Government Issues Pre-Alert Due to Worsening Sea Conditions
The Canary Islands government, through the Directorate General of Emergencies, has declared a pre-alert status due to worsening sea conditions across the archipelago.
This pre-alert is part of the Canary Islands’ Specific Emergency Plan for Risks of Adverse Weather Phenomena (PEFMA) and will take effect from 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 12.
Winds Expected to Reach Up to 61 km/h
The decision comes in response to weather forecasts provided by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and other available sources. These forecasts indicate northeast winds of 29 to 49 kilometers per hour, with some localized areas experiencing gusts up to 61 kilometers per hour. This situation is expected to cause rough seas, particularly in open waters between the islands, with swells from the north and northeast that could produce waves up to 2 meters in height. Additionally, the northern and western coasts of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, as well as the northern coasts of the other islands, could see waves reaching up to 4 meters offshore.
Safety Campaign and Public Advisory
Given the potential dangers along the coast, the Canary Islands government is urging residents and visitors to heed their public safety campaign, "At Sea, Don’t Take Chances," aimed at restoring respect for the ocean and reducing the tragic number of drownings on the islands.
Coastal Safety Recommendations
To minimize risks during this period of adverse weather, authorities recommend postponing any nautical or sporting activities and avoiding swimming in remote or unmonitored beaches. If unusual wave activity is observed, it is crucial not to remain near the water or approach the shore, even if conditions momentarily appear calm.
For safety, the public is also advised to stay away from piers, breakwaters, and any areas near the sea where they could be hit or swept away by waves. Beaches displaying red flags are strictly off-limits for swimming, and all instructions from lifeguards and emergency personnel should be followed.
