The government of the Canary Islands has declared a coastal alert across all its islands, as rough seas caused by strong north-westerly swells are set to hit the Spanish holiday archipelago. Authorities have warned that waves have the potential to reach four to five metres (13 to 16 feet) high, especially along the more exposed north and west-facing coastlines.

The eastern shores of El Hierro, Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, as well as the southeast of La Palma, are expected to experience less severe conditions, though still with notable swell. On top of this, all islands except La Gomera have been placed under yellow warnings, issued by AEMET - Spain's state meteorological agency. In light of the alert, the local government has urged residents and tourists to follow key safety precautions and take extra care during peak tides, especially following the deaths of several people under similar conditions in recent months.

Peak tides are set to take place between 4.10am and 4.45am and 4.30pm and 5.05pm on Saturday (February 7), having already struck the Canary Islands on Friday. Authorities have urged the public to avoid walking on or near breakwaters, harbour edges or sea walls and not to take photos or videos close to where waves are breaking.

Several red flags have also been raised on the archipelago's beaches, with the public urged to respect these warnings. The government has also urged everyone to avoid swimming in areas with strong waves, rip currents or in isolated spots unfamiliar to visitors.

The alert will remain in force while adverse sea conditions persist and further updates will be issued by emergency authorities, Canarian Weekly reported.

The coastal alert comes after the deaths of several people, including many tourists, due to rough sea incidents in November and December last year. In early November, an incident in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, and other northern locations resulted in three deaths and 15 injuries.

Then, less than a month later, powerful waves and rough sea conditions resulted in four deaths at the Isla Cangrejo natural pool in Los Gigantes, with others injured, despite active weather warnings. On December 7, a large wave struck the Isla Cangrejo natural pool area, sweeping several people into the sea. Four people died, including a 35-year-old man, a 55-year-old woman.

A large-scale rescue, including helicopters and jet skis, was launched.