Three dead and several injured as powerful waves hit Tenerife

Three people have died and at least 15 others were injured after unusually strong waves struck the Spanish island of Tenerife over the weekend, prompting authorities to issue coastal hazard warnings.

Emergency services confirmed that a woman had died after being pulled into the sea near the Puerto de la Cruz resort, while a man died at Santa Cruz de Tenerife. A third victim was found in the water near Granadilla, in the island’s south.

Rescue officials have urged residents and tourists to stay away from the coastline and avoid taking photos or videos of the rough seas, warning that conditions are expected to worsen. The Canary Islands remain on alert for coastal hazards, with swells of up to 4 metres forecast.

Local waiter Pedro told Reuters he jumped into the water to help rescue swimmers struggling against the current. “As soon as I saw a man waving at me I took my clothes off, jumped to the water and I managed to grab three of them and save them,” he said. “I couldn't save the woman because she passed away at that moment.”

Eyewitness Carlos said he had warned people to step back from the waves. “They did not pay attention,” he told reporters.

Officials said sea conditions around the Canary Islands were likely to deteriorate in the coming days, advising both residents and holidaymakers to exercise “extreme caution”.

The incident has raised renewed concern over coastal safety on Spain’s Atlantic-facing islands, where winter swells and strong winds frequently create dangerous sea conditions, particularly near popular tourist resorts.

ITIJ recently spoke to industry experts about how insurers are adapting policies and coverage to manage emerging weather-related challenges.