Weather warnings activated in the Canary Islands: effective from tonight

The Government of the Canary Islands has upgraded the pre-alert for adverse coastal phenomena declared on Thursday to a full alert from tonight, mainly impacting the northern and western coasts of all the islands.

The alert will come into effect from 10:30pm this evening (Saturday) due to adverse and dangerous sea conditions with significant swells.

The forecast includes winds blowing towards the north and northeast with a force of 30-40 km/h and localised strong gusts in the south and southwest region of the islands

The Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) anticipates choppy to moderate seas, northeast swells of 3.5 to 4.5 metres deep, and combined wave heights of 4 to 6 metres, with occasional bigger waves.

Additionally, a period of equinoctial spring tides associated with the new moon phase is expected.

Given these conditions, the regional government advises the population to take extreme caution along the coasts of the islands and emphasises the importance of following self-protection advice to avoid risks at sea.

They are also advising the postponement of all planned nautical or water sports activities and warn against swimming on remote or unsupervised beaches.

If abnormal wave conditions are observed, it is recommended not to stay close to the sea, nor approach even if it suddenly calms down.

Furthermore, it is crucial not to stand on piers and breakwaters or stay in areas near the sea to avoid being struck or swept away by the waves.