Three dead and 15 injured as huge waves hit Tenerife
Three dead in Tenerife tidal surge incidents

Three people have lost their lives and fifteen others have been injured after a series of devastating incidents linked to dangerous sea conditions on the popular holiday island of Tenerife.

The tragic events unfolded on Saturday, with officials confirming the fatalities the following day, Sunday. The severe weather, characterised by powerful waves and a significant tidal surge, led to four separate emergencies along the coastline of the Canary Island.

Details of the Coastal Tragedies

In one incident at La Guancha, a man fell into the turbulent water. Emergency services airlifted him from the scene, but he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

At El Cabezo, another man was discovered floating in the sea. Despite the efforts of rescue teams to resuscitate him, he could not be saved.

The third fatality occurred in Puerto de la Cruz, where a large wave swept a group of ten people into the water. A woman from this group suffered a fatal heart attack as a result of the ordeal. Three others from the same party sustained serious injuries.

Warnings Ignored Amidst Dangerous Seas

Authorities had issued prior warnings about the perilous state of the sea, urging the public to exercise extreme caution along the coast. The incidents occurred despite these official alerts, highlighting the unpredictable and powerful nature of the maritime conditions.

The combination of strong waves and the tidal surge created a hazardous environment that ultimately proved fatal for three individuals and led to a significant number of injuries.

Aftermath and Safety Reminders

This series of events has cast a shadow over the island, a beloved destination for British and international tourists alike. The local emergency and medical services were stretched responding to the multiple, simultaneous incidents.

The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of heeding weather and sea condition warnings, especially in coastal regions known for sudden changes in maritime weather.