A tidal surge in Tenerife, a popular Spanish holiday destination, has resulted in the tragic deaths of three individuals and injuries to 15 more. The waves struck with such force that emergency services have issued urgent warnings to locals and tourists to avoid the coastline and stay clear of the violent seas.
Among the casualties, a woman was reported to have drowned after being pulled into the ocean near the Puerto de la Cruz resort, while a man lost his life in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. A third man was found deceased off the coast of Granadilla.
Rescue efforts have been ongoing, with emergency services airlifting a man who fell into the ocean at La Guancha, only for him to be pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. Another victim, found floating near El Cabezo beach, could not be revived despite lifeguards' attempts to resuscitate him.
At the Puerto de la Cruz resort, a woman experienced a fatal heart attack during the chaos, while 10 others were swept out to sea, with three requiring serious medical attention.
Local residents displayed remarkable bravery, with one waiter, identified only as Pedro, recounting his heroic attempt to rescue drowning individuals. He managed to save three but lamented the loss of a woman he couldn't reach in time.
Eyewitness Carlos expressed frustration at onlookers who ignored warnings to step back from the waves, emphasizing the risks posed by the continuing dangerous sea conditions.
Authorities have placed the Canary Islands under alert for coastal hazards, predicting worsening conditions with wave heights expected to reach between two and four meters. Tourists and locals are advised to exercise extreme caution as the situation develops.
