Majorca Prepares for Impact as Storm Alice Hits Spanish Coast

Majorca is bracing for the arrival of Storm Alice, which has already caused significant disruption across other regions of Spain. The storm, characterized by heavy rainfall and severe weather warnings, is expected to bring chaotic conditions to the popular holiday destination. Local authorities are advising residents and tourists to stay indoors as the situation develops.

The Spanish weather agency, AEMET, has upgraded the alert for Majorca to orange, indicating the potential for extreme weather. Forecasts suggest that parts of the island could see rainfall of up to 100 litres per square metre in just three to four hours. This warning is particularly relevant for tourist hotspots such as Alcudia, Arta, and Pollensa, where heavy downpours are anticipated throughout the day.

The orange alert is in effect from 10:00 to 19:00 local time, while a yellow warning is applicable to the southern and western regions from 04:00 until 05:00 on Sunday. Following this period, calmer weather is expected to return, allowing for a mix of clouds and sunshine. Daytime temperatures could rise to around 27 degrees Celsius in Palma and Llucmajor.

As Storm Alice continues to wreak havoc, panic has spread in several areas of Spain. Reports indicate that residents, especially in regions popular with UK holidaymakers, have begun to scramble for essential supplies, including alcohol, as supermarkets face shortages. The south coast has already endured weeks of heavy rain, but the impending storm is set to exacerbate the situation, with forecasts predicting up to 250 millimetres of rain by Sunday.

In Costa Blanca, tourists have found themselves stranded due to flight cancellations and diversions. Officials have warned of “extraordinary danger” from flash floods, as the area struggles to cope with the severe weather. The warnings follow chaotic scenes in Murcia yesterday, where a tornado caused mass evacuations and severe flooding, leading to the evacuation of 67 residents.

The storm has produced torrential downpours across various regions, including Ibiza and Cartagena, where flash floods have been reported. AEMET has issued a red alert for Murcia due to the ongoing severe weather, which has resulted in numerous incidents requiring emergency response. On one day alone, Alicante’s fire service conducted 31 emergency operations to address the aftermath of heavy rainfall.

With the storm continuing its course through the Mediterranean, Majorca now stands on the brink of facing nature’s fury. As residents and visitors prepare, local authorities are urging everyone to take necessary precautions and avoid unnecessary travel. This proactive approach aims to mitigate the impact of Storm Alice, ensuring the safety of all individuals in the affected areas.

As the situation evolves, it remains crucial for those in Majorca and surrounding regions to stay informed and heed warnings from local authorities. The potential for severe weather serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable conditions.