Another recklessness on the coast of Tenerife amidst a warning for waves in the Islands. According to the association Canarias 1500 kilometres of coast, around 30 people challenged the sea at the well-known Charco del Cangrejo in the municipality of Santiago del Teide.
In a post on their social media, thanks to a video shared by user @tilly_85 on TikTok, the organisation denounces the flagrant “irresponsibility” of the bathers who ignore the state of the sea.
Sea punch
“In the image, a strong wave can be seen dragging two girls who are trying to hold onto the pole surrounding the pool, but they are expelled from it by the powerful current and fall into the open sea among the rocks. Others come to their aid before they could be swallowed by the ocean,” the post summarises, showing numerous people fighting against the waves even within the natural pool.
“Those who remain on the rocks are also exposed to become victims of a sea punch,” warns Canarias 1500 kilometres of coast, adding that this is a common sight along the Canary coasts and particularly at this point in Santiago del Teide.
In fact, according to testimonies gathered by the collective, local residents assert that “it is the daily scene that occurs day in and day out”. “We no longer know what to do,” they conclude.
And this is despite several signs warning bathers of the dangers of swimming, in addition to the fact that the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has issued a yellow warning for coastal phenomena on the Island.
According to the forecasts of the Aemet, wind gusts at sea could reach around 60 kilometres per hour, although they are expected to increase from Monday night, particularly affecting the southern coastlines of the Archipelago.
Safety
In light of this situation, Canarias 1500 kilometres of coast insists on increasing measures to prevent bathers from accessing coastal areas like Charco del Cangrejo, including proposals for greater police presence or fines for those who decide to enter the water.
In addition, they also advocate for the physical closure of access to the area or, if not possible, the presence of lifeguards, with direct coverage from law enforcement agents.
“It is just a matter of time before there are one or several fatalities and/or serious injuries,” laments the collective.
