Urgent warning to UK tourists as holiday hotspot placed under 'pre-alert'

The Canary Islands are currently on high alert for 'coastal phenomena' due to forecasted rough sea conditions. The warning covers the north and west coast of El Hierro, La Palma, La Gomera, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote; as well as the north coast of Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

The state of pre-alert was declared by the Government of the Canary Islands at 8am on Tuesday, November 26 and 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).

It warns of northeasterly or easterly winds of up to 19km/h, with some areas experiencing winds of up to 28km/h. Sea conditions are expected to be rough with northwesterly swells of up to 3.5m.

Residents and visitors are advised to take extra care during high tides, which are at 10.30am to 11.05am, and 11pm to 11.30pm local time on Wednesday, November 27. During these rough sea conditions, people are urged to follow additional safety measures, including avoiding standing at the edge of piers or breakwaters and not driving along roads near the shoreline.

The Directorate General of Emergencies has issued a warning to beachgoers, advising against swimming at remote or unfamiliar beaches and urging them to heed red-flag warnings. They also recommend avoiding water sports and staying away from the sea if any unusual wave activity is observed, even in seemingly calm conditions, reports the Manchester Evening News.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has also issued advice for those planning to swim in Spain, particularly around the Spanish Islands, including the Canaries. They state: "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."