Giant waves and their victims: Three dead in Tenerife - reminders of dangerous surf in Mallorca

When the sea suddenly rages: Deaths in Tenerife and a warning to all coastal visitors

Over the weekend we received the sad news: three people on Tenerife were killed by unusually high waves. Such reports hit hard, especially if you live by the water or spend a lot of time there. I immediately think of the rugged coast here and places where I often watch the surf — and not infrequently see people stepping too close to the edge to get a better photo.

Memories of Mallorca: Several similar accidents

In Mallorca over the last decades there have repeatedly been tragic cases. In March 2022 a 43-year-old German tourist died while exploring a sea grotto at Cala Serena: stormy skies, strong swell and an unusually high wave; the end was quick and harsh. Already in 2013 in the same grotto a similar incident occurred in which a young Argentine man lost his life.

Other accidents remain in memory: A few months ago on Mallorca's east coast four people were surprised while taking souvenir photos at the shore — the sea pulled them out. And going back to January 2003: a family at Sa Bassa Blanca fell into the same trap; the father survived, his two sons did not.

What do we learn from this? Not much new, but important

Keep your distance — it sounds banal, but it isn't. Most of these waves are sudden and often don't look dangerous until they are. Pay attention to warning flags, heed lifeguards' instructions and avoid rock ledges in rough seas. In my neighborhood the fisherman on the corner often says: 'The sea does not lie, it surprises.'

When the weather turns rough, a walk on the harbor makes no sense — go into a bar, have a coffee, wait it out. Emergency numbers and the presence of the Guardia Civil or local rescue services are important; remember where the nearest rescue points are.

A call for respect

Such accidents remind us that we are guests on the coast in the realm of nature. Short-term adventures — a photo, exploring a cave in rough seas — can end fatally. So: a bit of mistrust toward calm spots, respect for the unpredictable and, yes, sometimes let common sense prevail.

Our thoughts are with the families of the victims. And to everyone who will go to the water again tomorrow: take care of yourselves.