Teenager Seriously Injured in Kitesurfing Accident at Famara Beach, Lanzarote
A 17-year-old was seriously injured after a kitesurfing accident at Famara Beach on Tuesday evening, prompting a major emergency response involving firefighters, lifeguards, ambulance crews, a medical helicopter and Local Police.
The incident happened at approximately 6:34pm on Tuesday, 4 August, when the Emergency and Security Coordination Centre (CECOES) received reports that a young kitesurfer had suffered a significant fall while out on the water at one of Lanzarote’s most popular watersports locations.
Large Emergency Response at Famara
Emergency services quickly deployed a coordinated rescue operation to Playa de Famara. Firefighters, beach rescue personnel, two basic life support ambulances, a medical helicopter and Local Police officers all attended the scene.
Rescue teams reached the injured teenager and safely evacuated him from the beach to waiting medical crews. After being assessed and stabilised at the scene, he was airlifted by medical helicopter to Lanzarote Airport before being transferred by ambulance, accompanied by medical staff, to Hospital Universitario Doctor José Molina Orosa in Arrecife for specialist treatment.
Serious Cervical Injuries Reported
According to emergency service information, the 17-year-old sustained serious cervical (neck) injuries during the accident. His condition required rapid transport to hospital for further treatment and assessment. Local Police remained at the scene to assist emergency crews and prepare the necessary incident reports.
Famara Remains One of Europe’s Top Kitesurfing Destinations
Famara Beach is internationally recognised as one of the best locations for kitesurfing and wind sports in Lanzarote, attracting experienced riders from around the world thanks to its consistent Atlantic winds and wide sandy beach.
While conditions are often ideal for the sport, changing wind strengths and powerful gusts can create hazardous situations, particularly during periods of stronger weather conditions. Local authorities regularly advise water sports enthusiasts to assess the day’s conditions carefully, use suitable safety equipment and avoid entering the water if conditions exceed their experience level.
Advice for Visitors
If you’re planning to enjoy kitesurfing in Lanzarote, it’s always recommended to:
- Check the latest wind and weather forecasts before heading to the beach.
- Use appropriate safety equipment.
- Stay within your ability level.
- Follow any advice or warnings issued by local lifeguards and emergency services.
Our thoughts are with the injured teenager and his family as he receives medical care.
