A record-breaking number of migrants have reached Spain's Canary Islands this year, surpassing the previous record set in 2006, with nearly 32,000 individuals making the perilous journey from West Africa. The regional authorities reported that 31,933 people have arrived on the islands, compared to the 31,678 who arrived during the 2006 small boats crisis. Over the weekend, 739 people were rescued off the coast of El Hierro, the smallest and most westerly island in the archipelago, with two individuals found dead and two others dying later in hospital. The arrivals highlight the scale of the humanitarian crisis faced by the islands, prompting calls for more assistance from the Spanish government and the European Union.

The Spanish government has pledged to create additional emergency accommodation for approximately 3,000 migrants in military barracks, hotels, and hostels. The number of arrivals has spiked due to milder weather and calmer seas since September, making the journey more feasible. The Canary Islands have become a primary destination for migrants from Senegal and other African nations seeking refuge from conflict or a better life. The Spanish government is also working with Senegal to develop joint strategies to combat people trafficking.