Ibiza has been hit by extreme flooding as the island is whipped by the tail end Hurricane Gabrielle. But if you have a holiday booked, is it safe to travel?
The Balearic branch of the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has announced a ‘red’ alert for Ibiza and Formentera, the smallest of Spain’s Balearic Islands.
The alert, which is currently in place until 4pm on Tuesday, is the highest level possible.
The agency said over 180mm of rain has fallen in 12 hours, and videos on social media have already shown the devastation caused.
A ‘cascade of rain’ has crashed through the roof at Ibiza Airport and cars have been swept through town centres.
Tourists and residents received emergency alerts on their phones, which warned of flood risks due to torrential rain.
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The message advised people to stay indoors and avoid travelling. It also warned against approaching rivers, streams, flood-prone areas, and avoiding low-lying areas and basements.
‘If water enters your home, move to higher floors,’ it said.
The areas currently worst affected, according to the Majorca Daily Bulletin, are:
- Ibiza Town
- Sant Josep
- San Antonio
- Santa Eulària
Metro spoke to a worker at Sa Clau Ibiza, a boutique hotel in the centre of San Antonio.
They said no damage has been recorded, and that the worst of the rainfall has taken place in Ibiza Town, the largest town on the island.
Pure House Ibiza, a luxury hotel 10 minutes inland from the harbour, had a slightly different story. A worker there told us they have been battling the rain.
‘The road has been damaged, it’s underwater, and the mud came down from the mountains.’ Thankfully, they said there has been no damage to their property.
Metro has contacted the Spanish foreign office for comment. Currently, the website warns that extreme weather can affect many areas of Spain, especially during summer.
It says: ‘Flash flooding can cause travel disruption and damage to property and infrastructure. Check weather warnings from Spain’s meteorological office (AEMET) before travel and follow the advice of the local authorities.’
The AEMET have told travellers and residents to remain cautious: ‘Caution! Extraordinary danger. There may be flooding and sudden rises in waterways.’
The website for Ibiza Airport warns: ‘Adverse weather: AEMET red warning for adverse weather. If you are planning to fly to/from Ibiza Airport, please check with your airline about the status of your flight.’
The flooding comes after heavy rain hit other Spanish hotspots earlier this summer.
Back in July, half of Spain’s 50 provinces received weather warnings from AEMET, causing chaos for locals and tourists