Tourists in Spain, especially those planning vacations on the east coast and the Balearic Islands, are advised to be cautious as severe weather conditions are expected to impact popular holiday destinations.
Spain’s national weather agency, Aemet, has issued an amber weather warning, signaling a significant risk to people and property. The warning, effective from August 16th to 15th, covers the eastern mainland and the Balearic Islands, including Alicante, Almeria, Valencia, Girona, Barcelona, Tarragona, Ibiza, Majorca, and Menorca.
The storm system, known as a DANA (Isolated Depression at High Levels), is anticipated to cause increasing atmospheric instability. This will result in heavy rain, strong winds, and hail, with gusts reaching up to 100 km/h in some regions. The Balearic Islands are particularly vulnerable, with hail exceeding 2 cm in diameter and strong coastal winds leading to large waves.
The amber warnings will remain in place until midnight on August 16th, with most warnings lifted by August 17th, except for the Balearic Islands. As the weather system moves eastward, the storms are expected to shift towards the central Mediterranean by August 17th. However, Aemet warns that scattered showers and storms may still occur in parts of the Balearic Islands and northeastern Spain during the morning hours.
Tourists are advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and take necessary precautions during their stay. It is essential to avoid coastal areas and open spaces during periods of strong winds and heavy rain. Be aware of potential hazards such as fallen trees, power outages, and road closures.