Picture courtesy of Forta via BBC

 

Three people have tragically died and 15 others are injured after ferocious waves hit Tenerife, a favourite holiday destination. Emergency services reported the fatalities occurred in popular resorts, including Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the coast as the rough weather persists.

 

The fatal incident began when a woman was swept into the ocean near Puerto de la Cruz, suffering a fatal heart attack. Rescue teams struggled to reach victims quickly, with another death reported from Santa Cruz. Lifeguards discovered a third victim near a beach in Granadilla, illustrating the widespread impact of the surge across the island.

 

Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic scenes as waves unexpectedly swept people out to sea. Pedro, a local waiter, courageously jumped into the water to rescue several individuals. Emergency warnings have been issued across the Canary Islands, with officials anticipating worsening sea conditions and urging both tourists and locals to exercise "extreme caution."

 

The recovery efforts involved airlifting a man who had fallen into the water at La Guancha; however, he sadly passed away in hospital. Despite challenges, emergency services and lifeguards were able to rescue others in critical condition. Carlos, an eyewitness, reported trying to warn bystanders of the impending danger, only to see warnings ignored, reported BBC.

 

The Spanish archipelago is on high alert for coastal hazards as authorities prepare for swells predicted to reach up to four meters. The public is being advised against taking photos or videos near the dangerous coastlines. Emergency services continue to prioritise preventing further casualties and managing the ongoing threat as the situation unfolds.

 

 

 

Key Takeaways:

 

• Three people have died and 15 are injured after waves battered Tenerife.
• Emergency services urge the public to stay away from the coastline.
• Sea conditions are expected to worsen, prompting extreme caution alerts.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-11-10

 

 

Well done Pedro.