A 31-year-old German tourist died after a rare shark attack off the Canary Islands, losing a leg and suffering a heart attack during her helicopter evacuation to a hospital in Las Palmas.

This tragic incident, occurring while the woman was swimming next to a British catamaran, marks one of the few confirmed shark attacks in the Canary Islands, which has only recorded six such incidents in total. The attack underscores a disturbing rise in global shark encounters, a trend that has led to multiple fatalities this year, prompting concerns about ocean safety.

The attack took place approximately 278 nautical miles southwest of Gran Canaria, a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and diverse marine life. The woman was reportedly enjoying her time in the water when the unexpected and fatal incident occurred.

Emergency services in the region were alerted promptly at 12:55 GMT. In response, a military plane and a helicopter were dispatched to assist in the medical evacuation process. Unfortunately, the urgency of the situation escalated when the victim suffered a heart attack while being transported by helicopter to a hospital.

Upon her arrival at the hospital in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, medical personnel attempted to stabilize her condition. Despite their efforts, she succumbed to her injuries shortly after reaching the hospital. This incident has raised questions about the safety measures in place for tourists engaging in water activities in the region.

Shark attacks are exceptionally rare in the Canary Islands. With just six confirmed incidents recorded over the years, the region has generally been considered safe for aquatic recreation. However, the recent spike in shark attacks globally this year has raised alarm bells, correlating with concerns about marine ecosystems and human interactions.

The overall increase in shark attacks worldwide can be attributed to various factors, including changes in ocean temperature, shifts in fish populations, and increased human activity in coastal waters. Those who study marine life have suggested that the rise in shark encounters may reflect changes in the sharks' behavior, potentially driven by environmental changes and overfishing of other marine species.

Local authorities and wildlife experts have begun to address the safety concerns surrounding this incident. Discussions are ongoing about implementing more stringent measures to ensure the safety of swimmers. These measures may include enhanced monitoring of shark populations and improved communication about ocean safety for visitors.

As more tourists flock to the Canary Islands for their appealing waters, the importance of maintaining safety measures cannot be overstated. Tourists are encouraged to heed local advisories and to stay aware of potential dangers while enjoying marine activities.

In light of this incident, officials are also considering educational campaigns to inform visitors and locals about the risks associated with swimming in certain areas known to have higher shark populations. Informed decisions may help mitigate the risks of similar encounters in the future.

This incident serves as a reminder that, despite the rarity of shark attacks in the region, vigilance and preparation are essential for anyone engaging in water activities. As the world grapples with the increasing frequency of wildlife interactions, understanding and respecting marine environments remains paramount.