Tourist Feared Drowned in 20ft Waves Off Canary Islands
A tragic incident occurred in the Canary Islands where a young tourist is feared drowned after being swept away by waves. This event took place on Sunday, January 25, 2023, in Lanzarote’s Los Charcones area. Although emergency services managed to rescue three friends, one person remains unaccounted for.
Details of the Incident
The alert about the situation was triggered when a distress call was made to the 112 emergency line, indicating that four individuals were in peril at Playa Blanca, located within the Yaiza municipality.
Profile of the Tourists
- Nationality: American
- Age Range: 19 to 21 years
- Status: Students residing in Madrid
The group was enjoying a short holiday in a rental home in Arrecife when the incident occurred. As the waves surged, two members were pulled into the sea. The other two managed to swim back to safety, though they suffered minor injuries but declined medical assistance.
Search Operation
The response included extensive efforts from various emergency units. Firefighters from the Lanzarote Security and Emergency Consortium, alongside the Civil Guard and the Canary Islands Emergency Service, have been engaged in the search. Unfortunately, the operation was suspended at 8 PM due to poor visibility and hazardous sea conditions.
Warnings and Safety Precautions
Authorities had previously issued a warning about tidal surges, with waves reaching heights of 20 feet. Despite this, several holidaymakers were reported ignoring warnings and swimming in dangerous waters. The area was under an orange warning, designating it unsafe for swimming due to the rough seas.
Response from Authorities
Local officials are considering stricter regulations to promote safety on the beaches. Plans include imposing fines of up to 3,000 euros for those who violate swimming bans during hazardous conditions. This initiative responds to a growing concern over drowning incidents in the region.
Future Regulations
The draft regulation aims to enhance public safety awareness in light of recent tragedies. Minister Antonio Sanz remarked on the alarming rise in deaths associated with reckless behavior at beaches, urging the necessity for a sanctioning regime.
The rescue teams remain hopeful for the recovery of the missing tourist, emphasizing the dangers associated with the region’s unpredictable sea conditions. The search continues, combining efforts from land, sea, and air resources, coordinated among various emergency services.
