Pre-alert for coastal phenomena in El Hierro, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and La Graciosa

The General Directorate of Emergencies has declared a pre-alert for coastal phenomena in El Hierro, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and La Graciosa starting at midnight on Monday. Waves of up to 3.25 meters and force 7 winds are expected.

The Canary Islands Government, through the General Directorate of Emergencies, has activated the pre-alert situation for coastal phenomena in five islands of the archipelago. The measure, which affects El Hierro, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and La Graciosa, will come into effect at 00:00 hours on Monday, July 20.

The decision has been made based on information provided by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) and in application of the Specific Emergency Plan of the Canary Islands for Risks of Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA). The aim is to anticipate the adverse conditions expected along the coast of these islands.

Most affected areas and wave height

The territorial scope of the pre-alert includes the northern and eastern coast of El Hierro, where combined seas of up to 3.25 meters are expected. Along the rest of the northern and eastern coast of this island, waves will exceed 2 meters.

In Tenerife and Gran Canaria, waves may reach and exceed 2.5 meters, especially on the southeast coast of Tenerife and the west coast of Gran Canaria. On the northeastern coasts of Lanzarote and La Graciosa, waves will range between 2 and 2.5 meters. Authorities warn that isolated waves of up to double this significant height may be expected.

Strong winds in the inter-island channels

In addition to the waves, strong northeast winds are expected in the inter-island maritime channels. Gusts will reach 50 to 61 km/h (force 7) south of the channel between Tenerife and Gran Canaria, and offshore in the southeast of Gran Canaria. These conditions may affect vessels and activities at sea.

The General Directorate of Emergencies reminds that the pre-alert involves continuous monitoring of the situation and the activation of necessary resources. However, the population is urged to exercise extreme caution and follow the self-protection advice available on the Government of the Canary Islands' website.

Recommendations for the public

Authorities recommend avoiding swimming at affected beaches and not approaching cliffs or areas where waves break forcefully. They also advise securing vessels and removing objects from the coast that may be swept away by the water. Fishermen and water sports enthusiasts should postpone their activities until conditions improve.

For residents in coastal areas, it is suggested to stay informed through official sources and not spread rumours. The pre-alert will remain active while adverse conditions persist and could be upgraded to an alert if the forecast worsens.

This activation comes in the middle of summer, when the Canary Islands beaches see a high influx of bathers and tourists. Therefore, the Canary Islands Government calls for individual responsibility and reminds that prevention is key to avoiding incidents.