A tragic series of events unfolded on the Spanish island of Tenerife as a tidal surge led to three deaths and 15 injuries over the weekend.
Emergency services reported that a woman died after being swept into the ocean near the Puerto de la Cruz resort, while a man died in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. A third man was found deceased in the waters near Granadilla.
Rescue services worked tirelessly to save those affected by the powerful waves, with one man having to be airlifted after falling into the water but was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Another man succumbed after being found floating near El Cabezo beach, despite attempts by lifeguards and medical staff to revive him.
A local waiter, Pedro, shared his harrowing experience, stating, As soon as I saw a man waving at me I took my clothes off, jumped into the water and I managed to grab three of them and save them. I couldn't save the woman because she passed away at that moment.
At Puerto de la Cruz, another tragedy struck when a woman suffered a heart attack amidst the chaos, while 10 others were swept out to sea, with three requiring urgent medical treatment.
Witnesses described the scene, highlighting the recklessness of some observers who ignored warnings about the hazardous conditions, emphasizing a need for heightened awareness and caution.
Authorities have issued alerts for coastal hazards across the Canary Islands as conditions are expected to worsen, with wave heights projected to reach between two and four metres. Tourists and locals alike are advised to exercise extreme caution and avoid coastal areas until conditions improve.
