Tragic Drowning Incidents in the Canary Islands: 54 Lives Lost in 2025

Between January and October 2025, the Canary Islands have experienced a devastating total of 54 drowning incidents, as reported by the Asociación Canarias, 1500 KM de Costa. This alarming statistic highlights the ongoing challenges faced by both locals and tourists in ensuring safety while enjoying the region’s beautiful waters.

Analysis of Drowning Trends Over Recent Years

This year’s figure represents a slight decline of 3.6% compared to the same timeframe in 2024, which recorded 56 deaths. The average monthly toll has decreased to five fatalities, down from six in the previous year. While any reduction in drowning incidents is a positive sign, the numbers still reflect a significant risk, particularly during peak tourist seasons when the islands are bustling with visitors.

Monthly Breakdown of Fatalities and Injuries

October was particularly tragic, with six drowning deaths recorded, while January reported eight fatalities. The months of August and September were especially grim, each witnessing nine deaths. In addition to the fatalities, a total of 187 individuals were involved in various aquatic incidents across the islands. Among these, 12 were in critical condition, 22 sustained severe injuries, 50 experienced moderate injuries, 22 had minor injuries, and 27 were rescued without injury. These figures underscore the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and public awareness campaigns to prevent such incidents in the future.

Victim Demographics and Age Distribution

The data reveals that a significant majority of the victims were male, accounting for 76% of the total, while females made up 24%. The age demographics show that 35% of the victims were over 60 years old, followed by 33% aged between 30 and 59, and 8% were minors. Notably, there were 17 incidents involving minors, resulting in four deaths and two individuals in critical condition. This alarming trend raises concerns about the safety of younger individuals in aquatic environments, prompting calls for targeted educational programs aimed at both children and their guardians.

Understanding Victim Nationality and Identification

Information regarding the nationality and age of many victims remains unclear. Among the identified deceased foreigners, there were four British, two Polish, and individuals from Italy, Germany, Belgium, and Morocco. However, the nationalities of 39 victims remain unknown, highlighting the challenges in tracking and addressing the needs of diverse populations in the region. This lack of clarity complicates efforts to implement effective safety measures tailored to the demographics of both residents and tourists.

Activities Leading to Drowning Incidents

Swimmers represented the largest group affected, making up 70% of the incidents. Water sports enthusiasts accounted for 12%, while fishermen constituted 6%. Other cases involved individuals whose activities could not be determined. This data emphasizes the importance of promoting safe swimming practices and ensuring that water sports participants are adequately trained and equipped to handle potential dangers.

Geographical Distribution of Drowning Incidents

Tenerife and Gran Canaria were the most affected islands, with 16 and 15 drowning deaths, respectively, representing 57% of the total fatalities. Other islands reported the following numbers: Lanzarote (9), Fuerteventura (6), La Gomera and El Hierro (3 each), and La Palma (2). Notably, no drownings were reported in La Graciosa. Beaches were identified as the most dangerous locations, accounting for 54% of incidents, followed by ports and coastal areas (19%), natural pools (17%), and swimming pools (10%). This geographical analysis highlights the need for increased safety measures in high-risk areas, particularly on popular beaches frequented by tourists.

Timing of Drowning Incidents: A Closer Look

Most drowning incidents occurred in the afternoon, comprising 69% of the total, while 22% took place in the morning and 2% at night. The timing of 7% of the incidents was not recorded. This pattern suggests that increased vigilance during peak swimming hours could be crucial in preventing future tragedies. Lifeguard presence and public awareness campaigns during these times may help mitigate risks.

Collaborative Efforts in Reporting and Prevention

This report was compiled using data from various agencies, including 112 Canarias, the Civil Guard, National Police, Maritime Rescue, Firefighters, and Civil Protection. The initiative is supported by the Cabildo of Gran Canaria, the Elder Museum, the Government of the Canary Islands, and the Tourism and City of Sea departments of the Las Palmas City Council, along with Binter. Such collaborative efforts are essential in addressing the multifaceted issue of drowning incidents and ensuring that effective strategies are implemented to enhance safety across the islands.

Key points

• A total of 54 drowning fatalities were recorded in the Canary Islands from January to October 2025.
• The number of drownings reflects a 3.6% decrease compared to the same period in 2024.
• October had six deaths, while January, August, and September were particularly tragic months.
• 76% of the victims were men, and 35% were over 60 years old.
• Swimmers accounted for 70% of those affected by drowning incidents.
• Tenerife and Gran Canaria reported the highest number of fatalities.
• Beaches were the most dangerous locations, contributing to 54% of incidents.