The Directorate General for Emergencies of the Government of the Canary Islands has issued a pre-alert for coastal phenomena effective from 07:00 on Sunday, 12 May, for Tenerife, La Palma, El Hierro, La Gomera, and Gran Canaria. This pre-alert is based on forecasts from AEMET and other sources, under the framework of the Canary Islands Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena Risks PFMA (Decree 18/2014, 20 March).
Significant northeastern gusts reaching force 7 (50 to 61 kilometres per hour) are anticipated between La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro, and from Tenerife to the southeast of Gran Canaria. Additionally, strong swells and rough sea conditions are expected on the high seas with northward waves ranging from one to two metres. Local gusts over 60 kilometres per hour are also forecast along the southeast and northwest coasts of these islands, potentially exceeding one and a half metres in swell height.
The Government in the Canary Islands advises the public to take the following precautions:
- Secure homes against potential seawater intrusion.
- Avoid standing at the ends of piers, jetties, or close to breaking waves for photos or videos.
- Refrain from fishing in at-risk areas.
- Avoid driving on roads near the shoreline.
- Do not swim at remote or unfamiliar beaches due to potential local currents.
- Stay out of the water at beaches displaying red flags, in areas with strong waves, undercurrents, or where lifeguard services are not available.
- Suspend water sports and nautical activities in affected areas and avoid beach camping during storm warnings.
- Stay away from the shore if unusual swells are noticed, and maintain distance even if the sea appears to calm suddenly.
- Securely moor boats in sheltered areas.
- Warn others if they are in dangerous locations.
- If swept into the water, do not swim against the current, signal for help, and wait for rescue.
- If on land and someone falls into the water, throw them a lifeline with a float or similar object and call emergency services immediately at 1-1-2.
- For further information, contact 0-12.
