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Date Published: 30/01/2025

British tourist dies after being swept into sea at Tenerife natural pool

The 63-year-old man tragically passed away after a powerful wave hit the popular swimming spot where he was relaxing

A British tourist, aged 63, has died after being swept into the sea by a powerful wave while swimming at the Los Gigantes natural swimming pool, also known as Crab Island Pool, in Spain’s Tenerife. The incident occurred just before midday on Monday January 27, in the municipality of Santiago del Teide.

The area, which is protected by a concrete wall, is a popular spot for visitors but remains vulnerable to heavy waves during rough sea conditions. On this occasion, a large swell struck the natural pool, pulling the man and two women into the open water. Rescue crews, including a helicopter and firefighters, rushed to the scene. The man was found face-down in the sea, and despite efforts to revive him, he went into cardiac arrest and could not be saved.

The two women who were with him were also caught by the wave but managed to make it to safety. One woman was treated for minor injuries to her legs at a health centre, while the other was treated for a panic attack at the scene. Their identities and relationship to the deceased remain unclear.

A Civil Guard officer said, “They were all in the natural pool when a wave swept them into the sea. It will be up to the autopsy to determine how the British man died and whether it was due to drowning or perhaps a blow to the head.”

Active weather warnings and growing concern

Authorities have issued active weather alerts for the area, warning people to avoid the rock pools during rough sea conditions. High waves can spill over into the swimming areas, posing a significant risk.

This incident adds to the growing number of tragic drownings in the Canary Islands. In the past month alone, six people have lost their lives in similar incidents. The majority of the victims have been tourists, raising concerns among local officials. The Canary Islands Government is considering launching a public awareness campaign, in collaboration with the tourism sector, to inform both residents and the millions of tourists who visit the region each year about the risks associated with the islands’ natural swimming spots.

Minister for Territorial Policy, Manuel Miranda, expressed deep concern, stating, “The number of fatal incidents at beaches and swimming areas across the islands remains alarmingly high, and the start of this year has been particularly tragic.”

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