Tourists are being warned as Canary Islands is put on pre-alert for 'adverse coastal phenomena'(Image: Getty Images)

Tourists issued warning as Canary Islands on pre-alert for 'adverse coastal phenomena'

by · ChronicleLive

The Canary Islands are on high alert for 'coastal phenomena' as rough sea conditions are predicted across the archipelago. The north and west coasts of El Hierro, La Palma, La Gomera, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote; along with the north coast of Tenerife and Gran Canaria are all included in the warning.

The Government of the Canary Islands issued the pre-alert at 8am on Tuesday, November 26 and currently still remains in effect . The decision was made based on information from the State Meteorological Agency and other sources, under the Specific Emergency Plan of the Canary Islands for Risks of Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA).

Winds of up to 19km/h are expected, with some areas experiencing gusts of up to 28km/h. Sea conditions are set to be challenging with northwesterly swells of up to 3.5m.

Residents and visitors are urged to exercise caution during high tides, which are due between 10.30am to 11.05am, and 11pm to 11.30pm local time on Wednesday, November 27. Extra safety measures are advised during these rough sea conditions, including avoiding standing at the edge of piers or breakwaters and refraining from driving along roads near the shoreline.

The Directorate General of Emergencies has issued a stark warning against swimming at remote or unfamiliar beaches and urges the public to pay attention to red-flag warnings. To avoid risks associated with water sports, they also advise staying away from the sea if there's any unusual wave activity, even when the sea appears calm, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Meanwhile, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has updated its guidance for those looking to take a dip in Spain, highlighting particular caution around the Spanish Islands, including the Canaries. The advice specifies: "Many beaches have a flag system. Make sure you understand the system and follow any warnings (a red flag means you must not enter the water). Take extra care and get local knowledge if there are no lifeguards, flags or signs."