The Canary Islands Government, through the Directorate-General for Emergencies, has updated the situation affecting the archipelago and confirmed that the pre-alert for coastal phenomena remains in force across the islands from 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, 15 January.
Basis for the decision
The decision has been taken on the basis of forecasts and observations issued by the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), along with information from other monitoring sources. The measures are being applied in accordance with the Specific Emergency Plan for Adverse Weather Risks in the Canary Islands (PEFMA).
Authorities warn that the expected conditions could pose risks along exposed coastlines, particularly due to a combination of strong winds and heavy swell.
Areas under pre-alert
The updated early warning specifically affects:
- The north and west coasts of La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro
- The north coast of Tenerife and Gran Canaria
- Exposed coastal areas of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote
These zones are considered the most vulnerable due to their orientation towards incoming Atlantic swells.
Expected sea and wind conditions
According to the Directorate-General for Emergencies, rough seas are expected, with a north-westerly swell that could reach or exceed 2 to 3 metres in height. The swell period is forecast to be longer than 12 seconds, increasing the force and impact of waves along open coasts.
In addition, north to north-easterly winds are expected at force 4 to 5 (approximately 20 to 38 km/h), with the possibility of force 6 gusts (up to 49 km/h) in more exposed areas. These conditions may further worsen sea state and reduce safety along the coastline.
Coastal impact
The most significant impact is expected along coasts exposed to the west, north and north-west, where heavy swells and strong wave action may lead to overtopping, sudden surges and dangerous undertows. Authorities stress that conditions may change rapidly and appear deceptively calm between wave sets.
Safety recommendations to the public
In view of the ongoing pre-alert, the Directorate-General for Emergencies has reiterated a series of self-protection measures aimed at reducing risk:
- Secure homes and properties against possible sea water intrusion.
- Do not stand on piers, breakwaters or jetties, or approach them to take photos or videos.
- Avoid fishing or walking in high-risk coastal areas.
- Refrain from driving on roads that run close to the shoreline during periods of strong swell.
Swimming is strongly discouraged at remote or poorly known beaches, especially those without lifeguard services. Bathers should avoid beaches with red flags, strong waves, undertow or visible whirlpools. Nautical and sporting activities in affected areas should also be suspended, and camping on beaches during stormy weather is not recommended.
What to do in an emergency
Authorities advise that if unusual or exceptionally large waves are observed, people should move away from the sea immediately, even if conditions seem to improve temporarily. Boat owners are urged to secure their vessels in sheltered locations and warn others who may be in danger.
If someone falls into the water, they should:
- Move away from the breaking waves if possible,
- Call for help and wait to be rescued,
- Avoid swimming against the current; instead, remain calm and let the current carry them until a safer area is reached.
From land, anyone witnessing a person in difficulty should throw a floating object and immediately call 1-1-2, the emergency services number.
Information channels
For further information or updates, the Canary Islands Government reminds residents and visitors that the 012 information line remains available.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge the public to follow official guidance as weather conditions evolve over the coming hours.
