Three individuals lost their lives after being swept out to sea by powerful waves while bathing in a natural pool on the island of Tenerife on March 3, 2024. A 55-year-old woman, a 35-year-old man, and another male victim were declared dead at the scene, located at Crab Island beneath the striking volcanic cliffs of Los Gigantes.
The incident occurred around 16:00 local time when a large wave crashed into a group of middle-aged bathers, many of whom were foreign tourists. The force of the wave dragged several individuals into the Atlantic Ocean. Emergency services quickly responded, deploying air ambulances to rescue those affected and transport them to safety.
Among the survivors, one woman experienced cardiac arrest but was revived by paramedics and subsequently airlifted to Nuestra Señora de La Candelaria Hospital. Another victim, a 39-year-old woman, sustained moderate trauma and is currently receiving treatment at the hospital. Search and rescue teams continue to monitor the area for any additional victims, although no further disappearances have been reported.
Weather Conditions Contributing to Danger
The Canary Islands region has been under a weather warning since March 1, 2024, due to forecasts predicting wave heights of between two and five meters in northern areas. The natural rock pool at Crab Island, popular among tourists, is designed with a concrete wall intended to shield it from the open sea. Despite these precautions, the sheer force of the waves proved overwhelming.
This tragic event follows a similar occurrence last month, where three people died after strong waves struck the port of Tenerife during a tidal surge, injuring 15 cruise passengers. Among the victims was a 79-year-old Dutch woman who was one of ten individuals pulled into the sea near Puerto de la Cruz. While the majority survived, two suffered serious injuries.
Understanding Tidal Surges
Tidal surges, also known as storm surges, occur when strong winds and low atmospheric pressure push seawater toward the coast. These surges can elevate sea levels several meters above normal high tide, leading to flooding in coastal regions. The intensity of such surges typically correlates with the strength of storms or cyclones over the ocean.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by natural water bodies, especially during adverse weather conditions. Authorities are urging tourists and locals to exercise caution when visiting coastal areas, particularly during periods of severe weather.
