Canary Islands Government Extends Coastal Phenomena Pre-Alert

On December 21, the Government of the Canary Islands made a significant announcement regarding the ongoing pre-alert for coastal phenomena, which has been in place since December 18. This extension underscores the seriousness of the situation as adverse weather conditions are anticipated to affect the region’s coastal areas.

Impending Sea Conditions and Safety Risks

The General Directorate of Emergencies has issued a warning that the Canary Islands will face challenging sea conditions beginning Sunday afternoon. The forecast indicates that wave heights could reach an alarming 4 meters, which poses substantial risks to coastal safety and navigation. The alert serves as a crucial reminder for residents and visitors to exercise caution when engaging in activities near the water.

This pre-alert is based on comprehensive data provided by the State Meteorological Agency and is in accordance with the Specific Emergency Plan of the Canary Islands for Adverse Meteorological Phenomena Risks (PEFMA). The areas most likely to be impacted include the western, northern, and northeastern coasts of La Palma and Lanzarote. Additionally, the northern and western shores of El Hierro, La Gomera, Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and the northwestern and northern coast of Gran Canaria are also expected to experience these adverse conditions.

Detailed Wind and Wave Forecasts

As the situation develops, forecasts indicate that winds will initially come from the north on Sunday, with speeds ranging from 12 to 28 km/h, classified as strengths of 3 to 4 on the Beaufort scale. However, local gusts are expected to escalate to force 5, reaching speeds of 29 to 38 km/h by the end of the day. The sea conditions will be characterized by a swell and background waves originating from the northwest, measuring between 2.5 and 3.5 meters. This will result in combined wave heights that could vary between 2.5 and 4 meters, further complicating maritime activities.

Looking ahead to Monday, the wind direction is projected to shift to the northeast, with wind strengths increasing to between 20 and 38 km/h, classified as force 4 to 5. There is also a possibility that localized areas may experience winds reaching force 6, with speeds of 39 to 49 km/h in the afternoon. The sea is expected to remain rough, with background waves from the northwest measuring between 3 and 4 meters, leading to combined wave heights ranging from 3 to 4.5 meters.

Additionally, peak sea levels are anticipated to occur during specific time frames on Monday: between 1:55 AM and 2:35 AM, as well as from 2:15 PM to 3:00 PM. These peak times are critical for anyone involved in maritime activities or those living near the coast, as they indicate when the sea will be at its most turbulent.

In light of these forecasts, regional authorities are urging the public to adhere strictly to self-protection guidelines issued by the General Directorate of Emergencies. This includes avoiding coastal areas during peak conditions and staying informed about the latest updates regarding weather and sea conditions.

Key points

• The Canary Islands Government has extended a pre-alert for coastal phenomena since December 18.
• Wave heights may reach up to 4 meters, with adverse conditions expected to persist.
• The alert affects various coastal areas, including La Palma, Lanzarote, El Hierro, La Gomera, Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria.
• Winds are forecasted to blow from the north, with gusts potentially reaching force 5.
• On Monday, winds will shift to the northeast, with rough sea conditions expected.
• Peak sea levels are predicted for early morning and afternoon on Monday.