Severe weather is impacting the Balearic Islands, causing numerous injuries and extensive damage, particularly on the highly touristic island of Majorca.
Around 10 o’clock this morning, water erupted from the mountain like a geyser, pouring out of the windows and doors of Sylviane’s terrace, a Belgian resident we contacted on-site. “It’s a disaster, it’s a disaster!” she exclaims. Her entire apartment is flooded, having been renovated just two years ago. We are in the center of Port de Sóller.
In the streets of Sóller, water has taken over, forcing residents to seek shelter and wait for the flood to recede. The severe weather caught everyone off-guard, despite being forecasted. “Geysers were erupting from both sides of the window; it was truly impressive,” our interlocutor explains. “There was a lot of mud, and we had to be evacuated because they feared the door would fail. We stepped outside and, honestly, within five minutes, there was 45 centimeters of water throughout the apartment, with mud everywhere…”
“In the bathroom, it’s mud”
Very intense wind gusts surpassed 90 km per hour, and thunderstorms affected many areas. Around 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sylviane returned to her apartment to assess the damage. “There’s water everywhere; it’s a disaster. In the furniture, everywhere. The bathroom is filled with mud. The bedroom is muddy, and the bed has shifted. It’s a disaster. Thankfully, friends are here,” she reassures herself. “Thousands of liters are flowing down from the mountain, and I believe the infrastructure is inadequate. It’s high time for the authorities here to take action to widen the river’s path.”
The severe weather has also affected other regions of the island, with streets and roads flooded. The port is impacted, and the airport is severely disrupted, with more than forty flights canceled.
Severe Weather Hits the Balearic Islands: Majorca in Crisis
Severe weather is currently wreaking havoc in the Balearic Islands, particularly affecting the highly frequented island of Majorca. This sudden and intense weather system has resulted in numerous injuries and extensive damage across the region.
At around 10 o’clock this morning, a dramatic scene unfolded in the town of Sóller as water gushed from the windows and doors of local residences, resembling a geyser. Sylviane, a Belgian resident on-site, expressed her distress, stating, “It’s a disaster, it’s a disaster!” Her apartment, which had only been renovated two years prior, is now flooded. Located in the heart of Port of Sóller, the situation reflects the chaos prevalent throughout the area.
The Impact of Severe Weather in Sóller
As torrential rains inundated the streets of Sóller, residents found themselves taking shelter as floodwaters quickly rose. Sylviane recounted the harrowing experience, saying, “On each side of the window, there were geysers coming out; it was really very impressive. A lot of mud, and then they had to evacuate us because they were very afraid that the door would give way.” In less than five minutes, the apartment was overwhelmed with 45 centimeters of water, leaving a layer of mud in its wake.
The Aftermath: Assessing Damage and Losses
Upon returning to her apartment later that day, Sylviane was met with a distressing sight. “There’s water everywhere, it’s a disaster. In the bathroom, it’s mud. The bedroom, too; the bed has moved,” she commented, while seeking solace in the fact that friends were nearby to help. She added, “There are thousands of liters coming down from the mountain, and I think that the facilities are not sufficient. It’s high time that the authorities here do what is necessary to enlarge the passage of the torrent.”
Broader Impact Across Majorca
The severe weather conditions have not limited their impact to Sóller alone. Other regions of Majorca are also reeling from the sudden storm. Streets and roads across the island are flooded, severely disrupting daily life and posing significant challenges for local residents and businesses. The effects can be seen at the port, which has also been compromised by the relentless rains.
Transport Disruptions: Flights and Local Travel
One of the most affected sectors has been transportation. The island’s airport has experienced serious disruptions, leading to the cancellation of over forty flights. Travelers are advised to check flight statuses and remain informed about alternative transportation options.
Practical Tips for Residents and Tourists
Safety Precautions During Severe Weather
- Stay indoors during severe weather events to minimize risk.
- Avoid flooded areas and do not attempt to drive through flooded roads.
- Keep emergency supplies on hand, including water, food, and first aid kits.
- Monitor local news sources and weather updates for real-time information.
What To Do If You Experience Flood Damage
- Document the damage with photos for insurance purposes.
- Contact your insurance company to report damages and initiate claims.
- Reach out for assistance from local authorities or disaster recovery services.
- Begin clean-up as soon as it is safe, prioritizing safety over speed.
First-Hand Experiences: Stories from the Affected
A Narrative of Resilience
Despite the destruction caused by the floods, the spirit of the locals and those impacted shines through. Sylviane shared that despite the chaos, her friends rallied to help clean up the mess. “It’s heartening to see people come together in times of crisis,” she stated, reminding everyone of the importance of community support during such distressing times.
Weather Forecast: What to Expect Ahead
In light of the recent events, meteorologists are monitoring the weather closely. Local forecasts suggest that while the immediate storm may pass, risks of further rainfall remain. It is essential for residents and visitors alike to remain prepared for potential continued severe weather conditions.
Forecast Overview for Majorca
| Date | Weather | Temperature (°C) | Rain (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday | Showers | 22 | 15 |
| Saturday | Partly Cloudy | 24 | 5 |
| Sunday | Showers | 21 | 20 |
| Monday | Sunny | 25 | 0 |
The Call for Improved Infrastructure
Sylviane’s concerns about inadequate drainage systems reflect a broader issue faced by many communities in the Balearic Islands. As climate change continues to fuel extreme weather events, local governments must prioritize infrastructure improvements to better cope with heavy rainfall and flooding.
Residents and environmental activists alike are urging the authorities to take these issues seriously. Initiatives to expand drainage systems and improve flood defenses are increasingly seen as essential steps toward safeguarding both lives and properties.
