Tenerife Waves: 2 Deaths, 15 Injuries – Coastal Tragedy
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Tragedies Strike Canary Islands Beaches: Two Drownings and Multiple injuries in Single Afternoon
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rockfall Injuries at Playa de las Teresitas
On November 8, 2024, a rockfall at Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife injured several beachgoers.The Canary Emergency Service (112 Canary Islands) dispatched a medicalized helicopter and two ambulances to the scene. A woman was transported to the hospital with moderate injuries, while four others required hospitalization for minor injuries. According to the Local Police, the incident occurred because the group disregarded posted security markings warning of potential rockfalls.
Double Tragedy: Drownings in Granadilla de Abona and Puerto de la Cruz
Man Found Floating Off El Cabezo Beach
Shortly after 2:00 PM local time on November 8, 2024, emergency services responded to a report of a man found floating off El Cabezo beach in granadilla de Abona, Tenerife. Rescuers attempted resuscitation, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.Details regarding the identity of the deceased have not yet been released by authorities.
Wave sweeps Away Bathers in Puerto de la Cruz
Approximately an hour later,a large wave struck a group of ten people in Puerto de la Cruz,Tenerife,sweeping them into the sea. Local Police agents and bystanders successfully rescued the bathers, but a woman was found in cardiorespiratory arrest.Despite extensive efforts by medical teams, including the deployment of five ambulances, she could not be revived and was pronounced dead at the scene.three other individuals sustained serious injuries, four suffered moderate injuries, and two had minor injuries, all requiring transport to various hospitals on the island.
The Canary Islands authorities have issued a reinforced call for caution, reminding the public that the archipelago is currently on pre-alert due to strong swells and northwest winds. The 112 Canary Islands emergency service specifically advises against frequenting surfing areas, the ends of jetties, and groynes, even for photography. These areas are especially hazardous during periods of heightened wave activity. The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) forecasts continued strong winds and swells throughout the weekend, urging residents and tourists to exercise extreme caution near the coast. AEMET’s official website provides detailed weather updates and warnings.
understanding Swell and Rip Currents: Strong swells, generated by distant weather systems, can create powerful waves and dangerous rip currents. Rip currents are strong, narrow channels of water flowing away from the shore, and can quickly pull swimmers out to sea. If caught in a rip current, it is crucial to remain calm, swim parallel to the shore, and signal for help.