The Directorate-General for Emergencies of the Canary Islands Government updated its weather alert on Monday, 15 December, downgrading the situation from Alert to Pre-alert for coastal phenomena as of 2 p.m.
This decision follows forecasts issued by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) and other monitoring sources, in accordance with the Canary Islands’ Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Weather Conditions (PEFMA).
Areas Under Pre-alert
The pre-alert applies to the following areas:
- El Hierro: north and west coasts
- La Palma: north and west coasts
- Fuerteventura: north and west coasts
- Lanzarote: north and west coasts
- La Gomera: north coast
- Tenerife: north coast
- Gran Canaria: north coast
According to current observations, rough seas are expected in these zones, with combined waves ranging between 3 and 4.5 metres.
Sea Conditions for the Coming Days
Monday, 15 December
- Wind: North, force 4 (20–28 km/h)
- Sea: Swell with a north-westerly component of 1–2 metres
- Combined waves: Around 2 metres
- Tides: Coefficients of 54 and 56
- High tide between 22:25 and 23:00
Tuesday, 16 December
- Wind: North to north-east, force 5–6 (29–49 km/h)
- Sea: Heavy swell, becoming rough around Fuerteventura and Lanzarote
- Swell: North-westerly waves of 2–3 metres during the night
- Combined waves: 2.5–3.5 metres, rising to 4.5 metres in the north and west of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote at night
- Tides: Coefficients 58 and 61
- High tides: 10:40–11:15 and 23:10–23:40
Wednesday, 17 December
- Wind: North-easterly, force 5 (29–38 km/h), with local areas of force 6 (up to 49 km/h)
- Sea:
- Strong swell in the eastern islands
- Swell with areas of strong swell elsewhere
- North-westerly waves of 2.5–3.5 metres
- Combined waves: 3–4.5 metres
- Highest values expected in the early hours around Fuerteventura and Lanzarote
- Tides: Coefficients 63 and 65
- High tides: 11:20–12:00 and 23:40–00:15 (Thursday)
Safety Recommendations for Strong Swell
Authorities urge residents and visitors to exercise caution until conditions improve:
General Safety
- Protect homes from potential sea water intrusion.
- Avoid standing on piers, breakwaters, or other areas where waves break.
- Do not fish in exposed or risky coastal locations.
Road and Beach Safety
- Avoid driving on roads located close to the sea.
- Do not swim at remote beaches or beaches displaying a red flag.
- Refrain from water sports or nautical activities in affected areas.
For Boat Owners
- Moor vessels in sheltered or protected harbours.
If you see people in danger
- Warn them of the risk immediately.
- In emergencies, call 1-1-2.
- For general information, call 0-12.
