The weather in Mallorca this Wednesday, 9 September, will be marked by an episode of heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds that has prompted an orange alert. Rain and thunderstorm warnings will be in force between 10:00 and 20:59, with rainfall potentially reaching 40 litres per square metre in one hour. Thunderstorms may also bring hail and strong wind gusts of up to 70 km/h.
The episode will also affect the rest of the Balearic Islands. The Technical Advisory Committee for the Meteobal Plan has activated an orange alert (IG-1) for rain and thunderstorms across all the islands. A yellow alert (IG-0) has also been issued for coastal conditions throughout the archipelago and for strong winds in Mallorca and Menorca. Menorca also faces a risk of rissaga (meteotsunami).
The Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) does not expect the episode to last long, but it is expected to be intense. Emergency services warn that the day may begin with apparently normal conditions before deteriorating rapidly, particularly from midday onwards.
Gusts of 70 km/h, waves of up to four metres and falling temperatures
Winds could bring gusts of up to 70 km/h, while sea conditions will also deteriorate significantly, with waves of between two and four metres. In Ciutadella, the rissaga could cause sea levels to fluctuate by up to 90 centimetres.
The change in weather will also bring a drop in temperatures of around 10 degrees. According to AEMET, the heaviest rain and thunderstorms will be concentrated on Wednesday, while conditions are expected to return towards normal on Thursday.
Emergency services urge extreme caution
The Directorate General for Emergencies is urging caution due to the weather in Mallorca this Wednesday and recommends keeping up to date through official channels. These are the main safety recommendations:
- At home: secure doors and windows, remove outdoor objects that could be blown away and take measures to prevent water from entering. People are also advised to avoid basements and low-lying areas.
- Outdoors: stay away from torrents, bridges and river mouths. Do not cross flooded areas, either on foot or by vehicle.
- When travelling: avoid unnecessary journeys and use main roads wherever possible. Make sure your mobile phone has sufficient battery and check that your vehicle has enough fuel.
- In strong winds: secure awnings, shutters and aerials, and remove plant pots or other objects that could fall. Avoid parks, wooded areas, scaffolding and buildings under construction.
- On the road: reduce speed and take extra care with strong crosswinds. Motorcycles and large vehicles are particularly at risk.
- On the coast: stay away from seafront promenades, breakwaters and cliffs, avoid roads close to the sea and do not take part in water sports.
- If evacuation is necessary: close and secure doors and windows, turn off water, gas and electricity supplies and follow the instructions of the authorities.
What to do if you are caught in a flood inside a car
Emergency services warn that the first 30 to 60 seconds can be crucial if a vehicle becomes trapped in floodwater. In this situation, they recommend:
- Stay calm and try to get out of the vehicle as quickly as possible.
- Unfasten seat belts immediately. If children are travelling in the vehicle, adults should free themselves first so they can help them.
- Open the door if it is still possible. If the car is already partially submerged, water pressure may prevent it from opening.
- Open the windows as soon as possible. If they stop working, try to break one of the side windows with a solid object. Do not attempt to break the windscreen, as it is much stronger.
- Keep an emergency hammer in the glove compartment that can be used to break a window and cut seat belts.
- If the doors cannot be opened, wait for the vehicle to fill with water so that the pressure equalises before trying again.
- Once outside, help children first and swim towards the surface by following the bubbles to avoid becoming disorientated.
In any emergency, call 112.
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