The Granada-based, Guardia Civil, Mountain Rescue and Intervention Group (GREIM), has warned adventure-sports enthusiasts about the extreme danger currently present in the Barranco de Trevélez.
The warning comes after a fatal accident on the 9th of September at one of its most dangerous points, specifically when descending immediately after the La Hoya rapids pool.
The Barranco de Trevélez is considered one of the most technical and complex canyon descents in Spain. Classified as V5-A6-V, it is characterised by vertical sections, a lack of escape routes, and a tremedous water flow. Its reddish walls and iron-tingedb waters make it impossible to see the bottom, which increases the risk during jumps.
GREIM specialists carried out a technical inspection of the canyon on the 23rd and confirmed that recent flash floods have significantly altered the canyon’s aspect.
They found new drops caused by the displacement of large boulders, changes in pool depths, and more complex currents in the enclosed sections. Furthermore, the loss of line anchors swept away by the force of the water has been verified, requiring the installation of new security points and the reinforcement of handlines.
The rescuers place special emphasis on the danger of the La Hoya (pool,) where numerous rescues have taken place due to a undertow (rebufo) that traps the canyoner and repeatedly pushes them to the bottom, making it difficult to exit by themselves, even for experienced canyon abseilers.
Since 2002, the Guardia Civil has recorded nine fatalities in this Alpujarra section, in addition to multiple rescues each season. Given this track record and current ground conditions, specialists strongly advise against recreational canyoning in the area for anyone lacking extremely high experience and training.
(News: Carataunas, Alpujarra, Granada, Andalucia)
Keywords: Dangerous Abseiling Area Warning, Canyoneering, Multiple Deaths, Barranco de Trevélez, Guardia Civil, Mountain Rescue, Warning
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