The regional government of the Canary Islands has issued a pre-alert for coastal areas in response to a forecast of strong waves caused by Hurricane Kirk in the Atlantic. According to the Canary Islands' General Directorate of Emergencies, this alert will take effect from 6:00pm today, Wednesday, affecting Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, and El Hierro.
The decision follows forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and other sources. Authorities are acting in accordance with the Canary Islands' Emergency Plan for Adverse Weather Phenomena (PEFMA).
Hurricane Kirk is expected to bring swells reaching 2 to 3 metres in height, particularly affecting the northern coastlines of Tenerife, and the northern and western shores of La Palma, El Hierro, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote. The waves could be larger in some areas of Lanzarote. Although this may be a short-term event, variable winds up to 20 km/h are also expected, further contributing to rough sea conditions.
As a precautionary measure, authorities are urging the public to avoid open northern and western coasts, natural pools, and areas with no lifeguard, where the waves are expected to hit hardest.
Nautical and sporting activities should be postponed, and swimming in unsupervised or remote beaches is discouraged. If unusual waves are observed, people are advised not to approach the shoreline, even if the sea appears to have calmed down.
Officials also stress the importance of staying away from piers, breakwaters, and other seaside structures that could be struck or swept away by the waves. Beaches displaying red flags are strictly off-limits for swimming, and lifeguards' instructions should be followed at all times.
In case of an emergency, call 112 immediately for assistance.
