Coastal weather alert activated in all of the Canary Islands
Coastal conditions around the Canary Islands have deteriorated, prompting the regional government to urgently extend its weather pre-alert to every island from 3:00pm today, Friday (13th February).
What began yesterday as a limited warning for just three islands has now become a full archipelago-wide measure, activated through the Directorate General of Emergencies and based on updated data from the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET).
The move triggers the full Specific Emergency Plan of the Canary Islands for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA) across the entire autonomous community.
Worsening sea conditions
Authorities report that a deep-sea swell and strengthening winds have pushed risk levels higher than initially expected. Combined seas of 2–3 metres are forecast today, with the north of Lanzarote potentially seeing waves of up to 4 metres by tonight due to strong north-easterly winds.
This 3–4 metre swell is expected to spread progressively to all Canary coastlines throughout Saturday and Sunday.
Rising tides increase flood risk
The danger is not limited to wave height. Tidal coefficients will rise from 48 today to 72 on Sunday, significantly increasing the likelihood of coastal flooding and wave overtopping in promenades and low-lying areas.
High tide times to watch this weekend:
- Friday: 11:28pm
- Saturday: 11:56am
- Sunday: 6:25am and 6:58pm
Safety measures
The Directorate General of Emergencies is calling for strict caution across all islands. Residents and visitors are advised:
- Avoid roads and paths close to the shoreline.
- Do not walk on breakwaters, piers, or other exposed areas to take photos.
- Do not swim on beaches displaying a red flag or in unmonitored areas.
- In case of emergency, call 1-1-2. For general information.
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