Drowning Fatalities in the Canary Islands Show Notable Decrease by November 2025

From January to November 2025, the Canary Islands reported a total of 60 drowning fatalities, indicating a significant decrease of seven deaths compared to the same period in 2024, which saw 67 fatalities. This data was compiled by the Association for the Prevention of Accidental Drownings in the Canary Islands, known as 1500 KM of Coast, highlighting ongoing efforts to enhance water safety across the archipelago.

Analysis of Monthly Drowning Trends

In November, the number of drowning incidents remained steady at six, mirroring the figures from October. These numbers are considerably lower than the peaks observed earlier in the year, particularly in January, August, and September, each of which reported nine fatalities. In contrast, the months of February, March, June, and July experienced the lowest figures, with only three deaths recorded during this period.

The statistics for November included one swimmer in critical condition, three individuals classified as serious, fourteen with moderate injuries, and eight sustaining minor injuries. Remarkably, one person was rescued without any harm. The average monthly death rate in the region has now decreased to five, down from six per month in 2024, suggesting a positive trend in water safety.

Comprehensive Overview of Accidents and Victim Profiles

Alongside the 60 drowning fatalities, there were 220 reported accidents at beaches and pools throughout the Canary Islands. This total encompasses thirteen swimmers in critical condition, twenty-five with serious injuries, sixty-four with moderate injuries, and thirty with minor injuries. Additionally, twenty-eight individuals were rescued unharmed, marking a 26% increase from the 174 accidents recorded in 2024. This rise in accidents underscores the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures.

Among the 60 fatalities, 23 individuals, representing 38%, entered the water during periods when pre-alerts or alerts were issued due to adverse coastal conditions. Alarmingly, 17 minors were involved in accidents, with four fatalities accounting for 7% of the total deaths. The demographics of the deceased reveal that 37% were adult swimmers, while 33% were over the age of 60. Notably, the nationality breakdown shows that 77% of the fatalities were male, while 23% were female, with 22% of the identified deceased being foreigners. These statistics highlight the diverse nature of the victims and the importance of targeted safety measures.

Geographical Distribution of Accidents and Activities

Tenerife emerged as the island with the highest number of drowning fatalities, totaling nineteen deaths, followed closely by Gran Canaria with sixteen fatalities. Lanzarote reported eleven deaths, while Fuerteventura had six. La Gomera and El Hierro each recorded three fatalities, and La Palma reported two. Notably, La Graciosa reported no fatalities during this period, indicating a potential model for safety practices that could be emulated by other islands.

Beaches were identified as the primary sites for accidents, accounting for 51% of all cases. Ports and coastal areas contributed to 28% of incidents, while natural pools accounted for 14%, and swimming pools made up 7%. Most incidents occurred in the afternoon, representing 70% of the total, with 22% happening in the morning and a mere 1% at night. In terms of island distribution, Tenerife accounted for 42% of all incidents, Gran Canaria for 21%, Lanzarote for 15%, and Fuerteventura for 12%. This distribution emphasizes the need for enhanced safety measures in high-risk areas.

This report was meticulously compiled by the Association for the Prevention of Accidents in the Aquatic Environment in the Canary Islands, 1500 KM of Coast, utilizing official data from various emergency sources, including 112 Canarias, the Civil Guard, National Police, Maritime Rescue, Fire Services, and Civil Protection. The report received sponsorship from the Cabildo of Gran Canaria and collaborated with several governmental departments, showcasing a unified effort to address water safety in the region.

Key points

• 60 drowning fatalities reported in the Canary Islands from January to November 2025.
• This marks a decrease of seven deaths compared to the same period in 2024.
• Tenerife had the highest number of fatalities with 19 deaths.
• 220 individuals experienced accidents at beaches and pools during the same timeframe.
• Beaches accounted for 51% of all accident cases.
• 77% of the drowning victims were male.
• 17 minors were involved in accidents, with four fatalities.