Rising drowning incidents in the Canary Islands: 47 deaths so far in 2024
The Canary Islands have witnessed an increase in drowning incidents this year, with 47 fatalities recorded between January and August 2024.
This marks a 9% rise compared to the same period last year, which saw 43 deaths. The island of Tenerife reported the highest number of fatalities during this period.
In August alone, 28 people were involved in accidents in aquatic environments across the archipelago, six of whom tragically drowned, according to data from the Association for the Prevention of Accidents in Aquatic Environments, "Canarias, 1500 Km de Costa." Additionally, the statistics revealed one person in critical condition, two in serious condition, 15 with moderate injuries, two with minor injuries, and two others who were rescued unharmed.
The average monthly mortality rate this year has remained steady at six deaths per month.
Beyond the 47 drowning fatalities, the first eight months of 2024 also saw seven individuals in critical condition, eleven with severe injuries, 39 with moderate injuries, 12 with minor injuries, and 14 rescues of individuals who emerged unscathed.
Foreigners comprised 63% of the identified drowning victims, representing seven different nationalities: three Germans, one British, one French, one American, one Chinese, one Czech, and one Moroccan. Six of the deceased were Spanish nationals, while one foreign victim's nationality was unspecified. The identity of 31 victims remains unknown.
Adult victims accounted for 41% of the fatalities (19 people), with 34% (16 individuals) aged over 60. The age of 10 victims (21%) is unknown, and two victims (4%) were minors.
In total, 18 minors were affected by incidents on the coast and in aquatic facilities over these eight months, including two who were seriously injured, 11 who sustained moderate injuries, and three who suffered minor injuries. Men represented 79% of the drowning victims (37), while women accounted for 21% (10).
Among the islands, Tenerife reported the highest number of deaths (14), followed by Gran Canaria (12), Fuerteventura (9), Lanzarote (8), La Palma (3), and La Gomera (1). El Hierro and La Graciosa reported no fatalities.
Beaches were the most dangerous locations, accounting for 55% of fatal incidents, followed by ports and coastal areas (25%), and swimming pools and natural pools (10% each).
