A total of 13 people have lost their lives due to drowning in the Canary Islands during the first two months of 2026, according to figures compiled by the Association for the Prevention of Water Accidents “Canarias, 1500 Km de Costa”. Of those fatalities, six occurred in February alone.
The data reveal a worrying trend: 92% of those who drowned had entered the sea during periods when the Canary Islands Government had activated pre-alerts or official warnings due to adverse coastal conditions. These alerts typically relate to strong swell, dangerous currents or rough seas.
Increase compared to last year
The 13 deaths recorded so far this year represent an 18% increase compared to the same period in 2025, when 11 fatalities were registered.
In addition to the six deaths in February, that month also saw:
- Three people left in critical condition
- Two seriously injured
- Two moderately injured
- Two slightly injured
Overall, 40 water-related accidents have been recorded so far in 2026 — 29% more than the 31 incidents documented during the same period last year.
Victim profile and circumstances
Of the 13 people who drowned:
- Eight were adults
- Two were over 60 years old
- Three were of unknown age
Ten of the victims were men and three were women.
In terms of nationality:
- Seven were foreign nationals (including two Germans, one American, one Venezuelan, one Belgian and two foreigners whose nationality was not specified)
- Three were Spanish
- In three cases, nationality was not recorded
Activities at the time of the accident
Six of the fatalities fell into the category described as “others”, referring to people who fell into the water after being struck by waves or slipping from piers, promenades or cliffs, as well as individuals involved in certain sports or maritime activities.
Three victims were swimmers, two were divers and one was a fisherman. In one case, the activity being undertaken at the time of the accident was not specified.
When and where accidents occurred
Most incidents took place in the afternoon (62%), followed by the morning (15%) and night-time (8%). In 15% of cases, the time of day was not specified.
Beaches once again accounted for the majority of accidents (62%), followed by natural pools (18%), ports and coastal areas (17%) and swimming pools (3%).
Data sources
The association compiled its study using information from official emergency services, including 112 Canarias, the Civil Guard, National Police, Maritime Rescue, Local Police, Fire Brigade and Civil Protection.
The figures highlight the continued risks associated with entering the sea during adverse weather conditions and underscore the importance of respecting official warnings and safety recommendations along the archipelago’s coastline.
