The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has issued yellow weather alerts for coastal phenomena affecting Tenerife and Gran Canaria this Sunday, May 12. Expected conditions include north-easterly winds reaching speeds of 50 to 61 kilometres per hour (force 7) around the southeast and west of the islands, accompanied by swells of 1 to 2 meters. Additionally, the southwest coasts will experience variable breezes and lighter swells.
Aemet has also noted that the trade winds will intensify, potentially producing strong gusts, especially on the summits and southeast and northwest slopes of La Gomera and Gran Canaria later in the day.
With partly cloudy skies expected, along with clear intervals especially in the northern lowlands of the islands, temperatures will remain relatively stable. Thermometer readings will range from a high of 27 degrees Celsius in Santa Cruz de Tenerife to a low of 14 degrees in Valverde.
In response to these forecasts, the Directorate General for Emergencies of the Canary Islands Government has declared a pre-alert for coastal phenomena from 07:00 AM on Sunday, primarily affecting Tenerife, La Palma, El Hierro, La Gomera, and Gran Canaria.
Residents and guests of the islands are advised to take precautions such as protecting homes from sea water, avoiding dangerous coastal areas, refraining from nautical activities in affected areas, and securing boats in sheltered locations. The Directorate for Emergencies emphasizes the importance of heeding red flags on beaches, avoiding swimming at unfamiliar or remote beaches, and remaining vigilant for unusual wave activity.
In cases of emergency, individuals are advised to stay calm if caught in a swell, call for help, and wait for rescue rather than attempting to swim against the current. If someone else is in danger, assist them from a safe distance and immediately contact emergency services by dialing 1-1-2. For further information, the public can reach out to the emergency line at 0-12.
