The Balearic Islands, particularly Majorca, have been ravaged by a violent storm, leading to widespread chaos and dramatic scenes. Video footage circulating in the news has captured the terrifying moment when two ships repeatedly collided in the treacherous waters off the coast of Majorca, as powerful waves from the Balearic Sea tossed them against each other.
The collision serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather, which has wreaked havoc across the Spanish islands. The storm has caused widespread disruption, including evacuations, flooding, and the deployment of Spain’s emergency military unit.
The incident unfolded as a fierce storm swept through Majorca, generating massive swells that rocked the boats struggling to navigate the rough seas. The video footage, which has gone viral, shows the ships caught in the violent waves, smashing into each other repeatedly. Passengers on deck can be heard shouting frantically in Spanish as they desperately try to weather the storm and manage the damage inflicted on their vessels.
The footage reveals one of the boats already dented on its side, a clear indication of the intense force with which the vessels were thrown together. As the situation worsens, tempers flare, and those on board argue over the damage. The dangerous seas and relentless waves make it nearly impossible for the ships to break free from the storm’s destructive grip, highlighting the perilous conditions that have gripped the region.
The violent weather that led to the collision is part of a broader storm system that has pummeled the Balearic Islands, including Majorca, Ibiza, Formentera, and Menorca. The islands have been lashed by torrential downpours, leading to widespread flooding, flight cancellations, and even the closure of ports. The storm prompted an orange alert across the region, signaling a high risk of severe weather and urging residents and tourists to exercise extreme caution.
In Majorca, Spain’s emergency military unit was called in to assist with the situation as the island faced significant challenges due to the storm. La Savina port, one of the key ports in the region, was forced to close as the storm intensified, leaving many sailors and boat owners scrambling for secure moorings. However, some intrepid sailors, who lacked secure moorings, braved the stormy seas and quickly found themselves in trouble, as evidenced by the dramatic collision between the two ships.
The severe weather not only affected those at sea but also posed a significant threat to those on land. Tornado-style waterspouts were spotted off the coast near the Majorcan town of Santanyi and later near Port Adriano, causing widespread concern. These waterspouts, which are essentially tornadoes over water, are a rare but dangerous phenomenon that can cause significant damage to small boats and other vessels caught in their path.
In a separate incident, eight people were injured when a yacht crashed into rocks in Cala Saona, Formentera, as the storm hit. Six of the injured were taken to the hospital for treatment, highlighting the serious risks posed by the extreme weather. The storm’s impact on Ibiza and Formentera was also severe, with the weather front moving toward Majorca and Menorca, where it continued to unleash its fury.
The storm’s impact was felt not only at sea but also on land, as local authorities in Majorca took swift action to protect residents and visitors. Council chiefs in Calvia, the area that includes the popular holiday destination of Magaluf, suspended local festivities and other outdoor activities scheduled for Thursday and Friday. The decision was made to ensure the safety of the public as the storm continued to pose a significant threat.
Despite the severe weather warnings, some tourists chose to ignore the advisories and ventured out to the beaches as though it were a typical sunny day. In Magaluf and Santa Ponsa, several tourists were spotted heading to the beaches to soak up what little sunshine remained before the storm hit. However, as the storm rolled in, these beachgoers were forced to flee and take shelter as conditions rapidly deteriorated.
The events in Majorca and the surrounding Balearic Islands serve as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and often dangerous power of nature. The collision between the two ships, the injuries sustained by those on the yacht in Formentera, and the widespread disruption caused by the storm all underscore the importance of heeding weather warnings and taking appropriate precautions.
For those planning to visit or currently residing in the Balearic Islands, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest weather updates and to avoid unnecessary risks during extreme weather conditions. The storm has already demonstrated its capacity to cause significant damage and pose serious threats to safety, and it is essential to remain vigilant until the weather stabilizes.
As the Balearic Islands continue to endure the effects of this fierce storm, the priority for all residents and visitors should be safety. Whether at sea or on land, taking precautions and following the advice of local authorities can help prevent further incidents and ensure that everyone remains safe during this challenging time. The dramatic footage of the ship collision in Majorca is a powerful reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather and the need for caution and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury.
