Surge in Tidal Waves Leave Three Dead in Tenerife
Three people have tragically lost their lives and at least 15 others have been injured after powerful waves swept through the Spanish island of Tenerife over the weekend. The incidents occurred in various locations, as tourists and locals alike were caught off guard by the treacherous weather and rising tides.
The first victim was a 79-year-old Dutch woman who died of a heart attack when a massive wave surged through Puerto de la Cruz in northern Tenerife. The woman, along with others, had been caught by the unexpected tidal surge that dragged several people into the ocean. Despite efforts from lifeguards, three people were seriously injured and had to be rushed to the hospital.
In another incident, a 43-year-old Spanish man was fishing at Charco del Viento, a rocky area in northern Tenerife, when a wave knocked him into the water. Emergency services airlifted him to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The third fatality occurred at El Cabezo Beach in the south of the island, where a man was found floating in the water. Lifeguards and paramedics attempted to resuscitate him, but he was also pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not been released.
The rough seas that battered Tenerife are part of a larger weather pattern affecting the Canary Islands, where coastal hazards are now a major concern. Authorities have warned locals and tourists to stay away from exposed areas like piers and coastal paths, where people are often seen taking pictures or videos of the crashing waves. One eyewitness recalled trying to warn people about the danger, but said “they did not pay attention”.
Emergency services have urged extreme caution as sea conditions are expected to worsen, with swells predicted to reach 2 to 4 meters. As the Canary Islands remain on alert, the public is advised to avoid the coastline and stay safe from the ongoing storm.
