Ibiza and Formentera were placed under red alert on Tuesday, with forecasters warning of “extraordinary danger” from heavy rainfall that could trigger flash floods and river surges in the Mediterranean islands.
Ibiza City, the capital of Ibiza, urged residents to avoid travel and outdoor activities and warned in a post on X against approaching streams, low-lying areas or basements.
In light of this warning, authorities have decided to cancel afternoon classes at schools on both islands.
The Balearic Government has activated the Military Emergency Unit (UME) and reminded everyone that in case of an emergency they should call 112, as the fire department’s headquarters will be receiving many calls.
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More than 200 litres of rainfall per square metre fell in just two hours, authorities in Ibiza reported in early Tuesday afternoon.
Bus services have been cancelled as many streets have been flooded in Santa Eulalia, Sant Antoni and Ibiza Town.
Firefighters have had to rescue several people from their vehicles and there have been power cuts in many parts of the island.
Social media videos posted online have shown Ibiza airport waterlogged and with water leaking from the ceiling.
The road leading to the airport has been flooded and therefore police have decide to cut off access to the island’s only airport.
There are also reports of delays at Mallorca airport due to the heavy rain.
Ferry passengers were seen arriving at Ibiza with water up to their knees; other boats have been unable to dock.
Spain’s national weather service on Tuesday downgraded its rain alert for the eastern region of Valencia, the site of deadly flooding in 2024.
Aemet said the alert level in Valencia was cut by two levels from red — its highest — to yellow, a day after torrential downpours forced schools across the region to close.
More news to follow.
