TENERIFE TRAGEDY UPDATE: Four now dead as tourists ignored safety warnings at closed natural pool
Four people have now lost their lives, and the search continues for one still missing, after being swept away by powerful waves at the Isla Cangrejo natural pool in Los Gigantes yesterday afternoon, a site that had been closed, fenced off, and clearly signposted as dangerous since Friday due to severe sea conditions.
According to the Mayor of Santiago del Teide, Emilio Navarro, the area had been sealed off with barriers and warning signs in Spanish, English, and German, displaying images of how waves can engulf the entire pool.
Despite these clear warnings, dozens of people, mostly holidaymakers, ignored the restrictions and entered the area.
“We are devastated by this terrible accident. The area was closed and signposted for everyone’s safety, but people forced their way in, even crawling under fences,” said Mayor Navarro. “These are beautiful spots, but they are dangerous, and the warnings must be respected.”
Warnings Ignored Despite Closure
The Isla Cangrejo natural pool had been officially closed since Friday (5th December), after the Canary Islands Government issued a pre-alert for coastal phenomena, warning of waves between two and five metres high, particularly dangerous at high tide, which occurred roughly an hour before the fatal incident.
At the time of the accident, around 20 people of various nationalities were reportedly in the area, including visitors from the UK, Romania, and Slovakia, according to initial local information. Emergency services have recovered the bodies of four victims and continue searching for one missing person.
Social Media Fuelling Risky Behaviour
Authorities have expressed growing concern about the role of social media in promoting dangerous locations, such as natural pools and coastal viewpoints, especially among tourists seeking picturesque spots for photos and videos.
“Locals understand the risks of the sea,” Navarro added, “but more and more visitors come here after seeing these places online, unaware of how unpredictable the ocean can be.”
Despite regular patrols by the Guardia Civil and Local Police, officials say enforcing coastal closures remains a major challenge when visitors repeatedly ignore safety barriers.
A Pattern of Tragedies
This deadly incident follows a series of similar accidents on the island. Just a month ago, three people died and fifteen were injured in separate wave-related incidents across Tenerife, including one fatality in Puerto de la Cruz, and others in Granadilla de Abona and La Guancha.
Authorities across the Canary Islands continue to urge extreme caution along coastal areas, reminding residents and tourists alike to respect safety warnings and avoid venturing near the sea during high surf conditions.
The message remains clear: no photo or thrill is worth risking your life against the power of the Atlantic.
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