Alicante records the highest number of drowning deaths on the Iberian Peninsula in 2025.
According to new data from Ahogamiento.com presented by researcher Luis Miguel Pascual with the collaboration of research doctors of the Department of Computer Engineering of the University of Cantabria, drowning deaths in Spain have reached 408 so far this year, making 2025 the second-deadliest year on record for such incidents. Only 2024 saw more deaths during the same period, with 412 fatalities.
Among autonomous regions, Andalusia leads with the highest number of deaths, while the Valencian Community ranks third. Alicante accounts for more than half of the drownings in the Valencian Community, with 25 of the region’s 49 total fatalities. Málaga is the most affected province in Andalusia, with 23 deaths out of 79 recorded across the region.
Fatalities Concentrated in Summer Months
Unlike most regions of Spain, where drownings typically peak in July, Alicante reported the most fatalities in August, with nine deaths. In July, the province recorded seven drowning cases, tying with Valencia for the highest number. In June, Alicante reported four fatalities, trailing behind Málaga, Barcelona, and Cádiz.
The data highlights the variety of locations where drowning incidents occurred. Of the 25 deaths in Alicante, seven took place on beaches with lifeguards and another seven on beaches without lifeguards. Five drownings occurred in home pools, two in private or residential pools, two on the coast, and two in a port.
Concerns Over Lifeguard Services and Prevention
Researcher Luis Miguel Pascual emphasized that most lifeguard services in coastal municipalities begin operating in June, which could contribute to the higher risk earlier in the summer. The study, based on a review of published news reports due to the lack of official national statistics, underscores the need for improved prevention efforts.
“Spain is at 600,” said Luis Miguel Pascual, referring to the outdated state of drowning prevention, drawing a comparison to the early days of road safety campaigns in the 1980s. He criticized public authorities for a lack of well-planned and ambitious awareness initiatives, arguing that drowning prevention requires a multifactorial approach.
2025 Could See 500 Deaths, Researcher Warns
Ahogamiento.com projects that the year could end with as many as 500 drowning deaths in Spain if current trends continue. Pascual noted that weather conditions in September will be critical, as post-season beach use combined with reduced lifeguard surveillance after September 15 increases risk factors for accidents.
The findings highlight ongoing challenges in water safety management across Spain, particularly in high-risk coastal provinces. The absence of a centralized database and reliance on media reports limit real-time response strategies, while seasonal lifeguard coverage continues to leave gaps in safety during critical periods.
