Giant Waves Claim Lives, Injure dozens in Tenerife
Tenerife, Canary Islands – Giant waves triggered by Atlantic storms swept across the west coast of Tenerife on Sunday, killing three people and injuring at least 15 others, authorities reported. The incident occurred along coastal promenades and harbor areas, catching beachgoers and onlookers by surprise.
The Canary Islands,a popular tourist destination off the coast of North Africa,are frequently impacted by large waves during the autumn and winter months as storms develop in the Atlantic.While the Spanish state weather service, Aemet, regularly issues warnings about Oleaje (large waves), these powerful swells can also arise suddenly. This latest event underscores the inherent risks posed by the ocean’s force and the importance of heeding official advisories, particularly in exposed coastal areas. Rescue operations are ongoing, and authorities are assessing the full extent of the damage.
Tenerife’s west and north coasts are particularly vulnerable to these waves, which break close to shore with little dissipation of energy. The waves struck land almost unchecked, impacting waterfront promenades and harbor piers.
Fifteen people where injured,with varying degrees of severity,and have been transported to local hospitals. Emergency services continue to search for any potential missing persons.
Aemet regularly publishes warnings about such waves, but they can also appear as strong swells very suddenly without warning. (dpa, AFP)
