A 32-year-old British woman has died after being swept into the sea by a wave at the renowned sea caves in Ajuy, Fuerteventura. The incident occurred around 8:30pm yesterday evening when a large wave hit a group of four people who were sitting near the water's edge.
Three of them, aged between 18 and 26, managed to swim back to safety, however, the British woman could not escape the powerful waves. She was pulled from the water unconscious by local fishermen, an off-duty fireman, and officials from the Fuerteventura Council's Emergency Service with the help of a private boat.
Unfortunately, despite their efforts to resuscitate her, she was pronounced dead upon reaching the shore.
Local villagers have recounted how the wave swept all four holidaymakers off their feet, describing the area as "El Muellito." One of the rescuers detailed the moment they found the woman face-down in the water, highlighting the devastating impact of the powerful waves.
A spokesman for CECOES confirmed the woman's death, stating, "The alarm was received yesterday at 8:26pm, informing us that several people had been swept into the sea. An emergency response team was activated immediately." The police have not yet provided additional comments on the incident.
The sea caves of Ajuy, located on the west coast of Fuerteventura, are a popular destination for tourists, known for their stunning geological formations and the dramatic interaction between the ocean and the rocky coastline.
However, this beauty comes with inherent risks. On March 30th, a 23-year-old tourist narrowly escaped death after being rescued from the same area by helicopter. They had ignored storm warnings and ventured too close to the dangerous waves.
The Ajuy Caves, declared a Natural Monument in 1987 and part of the Betancuria Rural Park, are protected due to their historical and geological significance.
They are among the oldest formations in the Canary Islands and are listed as one of the 150 sites of primary geological interest worldwide. Each year, thousands of tourists visit these caves to witness their grandeur and the spectacular ocean waves.
Visitors are reminded to respect posted warnings and to be aware of the dynamic and potentially dangerous nature of coastal environments.
