As of Wednesday, 8 January, the Government of the Canary Islands has declared a pre-alert situation for coastal phenomena. The alert took effect at 20:00 hours and is expected to affect several areas across the archipelago, prompting the Directorate General for Emergencies to issue essential safety guidelines for residents and visitors.
Affected Areas
The pre-alert covers the following regions:
- La Palma: North and west coast.
- El Hierro: Entire coastline.
- Fuerteventura and Lanzarote: North and west coastlines.
- La Gomera: Northwest and southwest coastlines.
- Tenerife and Gran Canaria: North coast.
Recommended Safety Measures
For Homes and Personal Safety
- Secure your home against the potential invasion of seawater.
- Avoid standing on piers or jetties, particularly near wave-breaking zones.
- Do not risk taking photographs or videos in dangerous coastal areas.
For Outdoor Activities
- Fishing: Avoid fishing in areas prone to strong waves or dangerous conditions.
- Swimming: Refrain from swimming at remote or unfamiliar beaches, particularly those with red flags or without lifeguard services.
- Sports and Camping: Avoid engaging in water sports or nautical activities in affected areas and do not camp on beaches during storm warnings.
For Travel
- Avoid driving on roads near the shoreline, especially those prone to flooding or erosion.
- If you own a boat, secure its mooring in a safe, sheltered location.
In Case of Emergency
- If you notice unusual swells, immediately move to safety and avoid staying close to the sea, even if conditions appear to calm suddenly.
- If someone falls into the water:
- Throw a floatation device or any object they can hold on to.
- Call 1-1-2 immediately for rescue assistance.
If Caught in the Water
- Move away from wave-breaking areas, signal for help, and wait for rescue.
- If swept by a current, remain calm, avoid swimming against it, and let yourself be carried away until you can swim to safety where the current weakens.
Contact Information
- For general inquiries, dial 0-12.
- For emergencies, contact 1-1-2.
Stay Informed and Safe
This pre-alert emphasizes the importance of caution for all residents and visitors. Ensure you follow these recommendations and stay updated on further weather developments to minimize risks during this period of coastal disturbance.
