The Government of the Canary Islands, through the General Directorate of Emergencies, and in the application of the Specific Emergency Plan of the Canary Islands for Risks of Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA) has declared a pre-alert situation for coastal phenomena throughout the archipelago starting at 07:00 hours this Thursday, September 12. A pre-alert that is added to the wind alert that will also be activated from this Thursday.
This decision has been taken in view of the weather forecasts provided by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and other available sources, which indicate northeast winds of 29 to 49 kilometers per hour, with local areas that may reach 61 kilometers. This situation will generate strong swells increasing to rough seas in the high seas between the islands and north and northeast swell with waves that can reach 2 meters in height. In addition, sea waves will be generated on the north and west coast of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, as well as in the north of the rest of the islands with waves that can reach 4 meters in height in the altar.
Given these circumstances on our coasts, the Government of the Canary Islands invites you to follow the citizen awareness campaign "At sea, don't risk it", aimed at recovering "respect for the sea" and reducing the "unacceptable and tragic" number of deaths by drowning in the islands.
Self-protection recommendations on the coasts
Given the worsening of the state of the sea and with the aim of avoiding risks, it is advisable to postpone nautical or sports activities and not to swim on secluded or unguarded beaches. In addition, if there is some unusual swell, you should not stay near the sea, or approach it even if it calms down suddenly.
In order not to put yourself in a dangerous situation, it is vitally important not to be located on docks and breakwaters, or to remain in places near the sea where they can be hit or dragged by the waves.
Also, for safety, you should not forget that swimming is prohibited on beaches with a red flag and that you should always follow the instructions of the rescue and lifeguard personnel.
In the event of any emergency, it is vitally important to immediately alert 112 to request help.
