The Directorate General of Emergencies and Interior (DGEI) has activated Severity Index 1 (IG-1) of the Special Plan for Adverse Weather Risks (METEOBAL) and Operational Status 0 of Inunbal due to the forecast of heavy rains and storms across all islands today, Tuesday, and tomorrow, Wednesday.

According to the State Meteorological Agency, rainfall levels could reach 40 l/m² in an hour and up to 100 l/m² over a 12-hour period, accompanied by strong gusts of wind between 50 and 60 km/h. In addition, IG0 remains active in Mallorca and Menorca due to coastal risks.

To coordinate possible joint actions, the DGEI convened the Meteobal Advisory Technical Committee yesterday, Monday, with participation from representatives of the Consell de Mallorca Fire Department, Palma Fire Department, National Police, Civil Guard, AEMET, Consell de Mallorca Highways, IBANAT, SAMU 061, Water Resources, RiscBal, and others.

Due to the risk of possible flooding, the Directorate General of Emergencies and Interior advises extreme caution and offers a series of recommendations to minimise personal and material risks during the expected period of heavy rainfall:

Home measures:

  • Secure doors and windows.
  • Stay in the upper areas of the house.
  • Store any items that could be swept away by water inside.
  • Place medicines, important documents, valuables, as well as food and drinking water, in elevated areas of the house, along with any hazardous items.
  • Avoid staying in basements or low areas, such as garages.
  • If water has already entered the house, disconnect the main power switch.

Outdoor measures:

  • In rural areas, stay clear of streams and flood-prone areas.
  • In urban areas, seek shelter in a secure building.
  • Avoid walking through areas with moving water, as its force increases with speed.

Road measures:

  • Avoid travelling by car unless absolutely necessary.
  • If you must drive, reduce speed, increase following distance, and use motorways or main roads.
  • In cases of poor visibility, stop and signal the vehicle’s position.
  • Do not attempt to cross flooded areas, even if the water appears shallow; even a small amount can cause a car to float and be swept away.
  • If the car begins to float, exit immediately. If you cannot open the door, use the window.
  • If the vehicle becomes immobilised or water reaches the axle, abandon it and head to higher ground.
  • Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and the fuel tank is full.
  • Avoid parking on bridges, pavements, or at river mouths.