The State Meteorological Agency, Aemet, has issued yellow warnings for adverse coastal conditions in parts of the Canary Islands due to high waves expected from the early hours of Monday, 20 July.
The warnings will affect Tenerife and Gran Canaria, particularly the eastern, southern and western coasts of both islands. According to the forecast, sea conditions will deteriorate significantly in these coastal areas as a result of strong north-easterly winds and rough seas.
The alerts are scheduled to come into force at 00:00 on Monday and, for the moment, will remain active until 01:00 on Tuesday, 21 July. During this period, the affected areas may experience dangerous conditions along the coastline, especially in exposed beaches, rocky areas and zones where waves break with greater force.
Warnings for adverse coastal phenomena are relatively common in the Canary Islands during the summer months, when the trade winds often intensify. However, the authorities continue to urge residents and visitors to act with caution, particularly in areas where the sea state may change quickly.
People are advised to avoid swimming in risky areas, stay away from rocks, breakwaters and exposed promenades, and refrain from water sports when conditions are unsafe. It is also recommended to follow the instructions of lifeguards, local police and emergency services at all times.
Affected areas and expected wind strength
According to Aemet’s official forecast, the episode will be associated with north-easterly winds reaching speeds of between 50 and 61 kilometres per hour. This corresponds to force seven on the Beaufort scale, a level capable of generating rough sea conditions and stronger waves along exposed coasts.
The strongest gusts are expected offshore, especially in the south-east of Gran Canaria and to the south of the channel that separates Gran Canaria from Tenerife. These areas may see the most adverse sea conditions during the warning period.
For the time being, the rest of the islands in the archipelago remain without active weather warnings for coastal phenomena. However, Aemet’s forecast may be updated depending on how wind and sea conditions evolve over the coming hours.
Overall, the main impact of the episode will be felt on the coasts of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, where the combination of strong trade winds and high waves will require special caution from beachgoers, swimmers and anyone planning activities near the sea.
