The Directorate General of Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands has declared a pre-alert situation for coastal phenomena in Lanzarote and other islands of the archipelago such as Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, as well as the northern coast of Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
Based on the prediction from the State Meteorological Agency and other available sources, the regional Executive anticipates rough seas around the islands from Thursday afternoon, with combined northwest swell, likely reaching waves between two and three meters in height
According to the Canary Islands Government, the swell will have long periods of more than twelve seconds. Thus, the north or northeast wind will be force four to five, which translates to winds between 20 and 38 kilometers per hour. This force may increase to force six, between 39 and 49 kilometers per hour, in exposed areas.
Likewise, moderate to strong surf is expected with a swell. The episode will most affect the coasts open to the west, north, and northwest of the islands.
The State Meteorological Agency has issued a special warning starting Saturday, January 17, in Lanzarote. Aemet has forecast northwest groundswell, with waves that could reach up to four meters during the early morning hours to the north and west of the island.
At this point, it is expected that the north wind will strengthen to force five or six, and even force seven in some areas, especially in the channels between islands. The combined sea could exceed four meters in the coastal waters of Lanzarote from Saturday midday.