The Canary Islands Government has issued a coastal pre-alert for five islands from today, Wednesday 5th August, as strong winds and rough seas are expected to create dangerous conditions along parts of the coastline.

The warning, issued by the Directorate General for Emergencies, follows forecasts from AEMET and has been activated under the Canary Islands' Emergency Plan for Adverse Weather Risks (PEFMA).

Strong winds and rough seas expected

The main concern is strengthening north-easterly winds, particularly in the sea channels between the islands, where gusts are expected to reach Force 7 on the Beaufort scale, equivalent to 50 to 61 km/h.

The strongest conditions are forecast:

• On the south-east coast of Tenerife
• Along the western and south-east coasts of Gran Canaria
• Along the north-west and south-east coasts of La Palma
• Off the western coast of La Gomera
• On the north-east coast of El Hierro

These winds are expected to generate combined waves of between two and three metres, creating dangerous sea conditions and powerful currents.

Increased risk during the summer

Authorities have warned that rough seas and strong winds in the inter-island channels frequently create dangerous rip currents along south and west-facing beaches during the summer months.

With beaches currently busy due to the holiday season and ongoing hot weather, there are concerns that swimmers, tourists and water sports enthusiasts could be at greater risk, particularly on unguarded beaches.

The pre-alert is intended to reduce the risk of accidents and drownings by encouraging people to take extra care around the coast.

Safety advice

The Government is urging residents and visitors to follow these precautions while the pre-alert remains in force:

• Stay away from the ends of piers, breakwaters and exposed coastal rocks.
• Do not stop to take photographs or videos where large waves are breaking.
• Avoid entering the sea at beaches flying a red flag or those with strong currents and no lifeguard service.
• Postpone water sports and avoid camping close to the shoreline in affected areas.
• If caught in a rip current, do not swim directly against it. Stay calm, allow the current to carry you until it weakens, then swim parallel to the shore before heading back to land.
• In any emergency, call 112 immediately.

Officials are asking everyone to remain vigilant over the coming days, as hazardous sea conditions could develop rapidly despite otherwise fine weather on land.