Tourist Killed in Tenerife Beach Horror
A holiday tragedy has struck the popular Canary Island of Tenerife, leaving one tourist dead and nine others injured after a sudden and massive wave swept across a beach. The incident occurred in the well-known resort of Puerto de la Cruz, a favourite destination for British holidaymakers.
Emergency services, including a rescue helicopter, were scrambled to the scene. Despite the best efforts of responders, a woman was pronounced dead at the scene. The nine injured people were rushed to various nearby health centres, including the University Hospital of the Canary Islands, the North Hospital, and Hospiten Bellevue University Hospital.
Details of the Injuries and Rescue
The injured individuals mainly suffered trauma from impact against the pier or rocks, as well as complications from falling into the sea. The force of the wave was so powerful that it knocked people off their feet, sending sunbathers running for safety as onlookers screamed.
Three of the injured remain in serious condition, having sustained significant leg and hip injuries. The terrifying moment was captured on video, showing the wall of water smashing against the rocks and causing panic among tourists trying to avoid being dragged into the ocean.
Authorities Issue Stark Safety Warnings
This tragic event has highlighted the ongoing dangers of ignoring coastal safety warnings. The coastal safety platform Canarias, 1500 KM de Costa, shared frightening footage from the Natural pools of Jover in La Laguna, taken just last week, with the caption: "Prevention, please."
This incident is part of a worrying trend in the region. Authorities revealed that 48 people lost their lives to drowning in the Canary Islands between January and September this year alone. In response, the Canary Islands Government has launched a major public awareness campaign.
Manuel Miranda, Regional Minister for Territorial Policy, issued a sobering statement: “Last year, our coasts and swimming pools claimed more lives than our roads. We must restore respect for the sea. This campaign is vital to tackle the high number of fatal aquatic accidents we continue to see every year in the Canary Islands.” Local officials continue to urge extreme caution near the sea, especially during periods of strong swell and heavy waves.
