Four individuals have died and one person is missing following a powerful wave that swept a group of swimmers out to sea at the popular seawater pool known as Isla Cangrejo, located on the coast of the Spanish island of Tenerife. Emergency services reported that three bodies were recovered on Sunday, including a 35-year-old woman and a 55-year-old man, with a third man yet to be identified. The fourth victim, a woman, succumbed to her injuries on Monday after being revived at the scene and subsequently airlifted to a hospital.
According to local officials, another individual remains hospitalized, while search efforts continue for the missing swimmer. Notably, the Slovak foreign ministry confirmed the deaths of two Slovak citizens linked to this tragic incident.
Dangerous Conditions Ignored
The seawater pool, situated at nearly sea level, is bordered by volcanic rock on one side and a cement barrier on the other. Local media indicate that it is a popular destination for tourists, particularly during the holiday season. However, the pool can become perilous during rough seas, which was the case when the incident occurred. Reports suggest that a weather advisory for rough seas was in effect at that time, indicating heightened risk for swimmers.
Witnesses described the events, stating that two powerful waves struck the area, pulling swimmers into the ocean. One witness recalled, “We were very far away from the pool, and even then, the waves reached us. I looked backwards and saw the pool go from being full to having no one.”
Area residents expressed concerns that swimmers had ignored clear signage and fencing intended to prevent access to the pool in unsafe conditions. According to one local, “People don’t know how the sea is here, and the danger of the pool, because there are rocks below on which people fall and can’t get back up. It’s very dangerous.”
Authorities Respond to the Tragedy
Emilio Navarro, the mayor of Santiago Del Teide, extended condolences to the families of the deceased and confirmed that rescue operations were ongoing. He emphasized the importance of adhering to safety warnings, urging the public to respect signage put up by authorities to protect swimmers during hazardous weather.
“This is to take care of and protect everyone,” Navarro stated.
This incident is not isolated; it follows a series of similar tragedies in Tenerife. Last month, three people lost their lives and at least 15 others were injured in various incidents related to rough seas. One woman was pulled into the ocean near the Puerto de la Cruz resort, while another man died in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. A third victim was found deceased near a beach in Granadilla.
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is located off the northwest coast of Africa and is known for its breathtaking landscapes and popular tourist attractions. As investigations continue, authorities are expected to review safety measures in place at the Isla Cangrejo pool and other similar locations to prevent future incidents.
