Storm chaos hits Spanish islands: Flights canceled, towns evacuated
Since Wednesday, the Spanish Balearic Islands have been affected by storms, thunderstorms, and strong winds. On Thursday in Mallorca, dozens of flights were canceled, many roads were flooded, and homes were waterlogged. Evacuations in some towns were also necessary.
6:34 AM EDT, August 16, 2024
The Spanish Balearic Islands have experienced heavy rains, and a storm has hit Mallorca. Roads are flooded, and numerous flights have been canceled. Nine people were injured on the island of Formentera.
The army has sent units to Mallorca to help control the situation.
Orange weather alert
The Spanish national weather agency AEMET maintained an orange alert on Thursday due to the high risk of storms. Previously, a red-level warning had been in effect. On Wednesday, people were urged to stay indoors as streets turned into rivers.
29 people were evacuated from a train on the Palma de Mallorca-Manacor route. The train could not proceed because the tracks were damaged by rising water. In another town, Soller, several people were evacuated.
Recordings show that the wind was so strong it literally moved furniture and larger structures in gardens, toppling trees.
Flooded airports, canceled flights
Since Wednesday, over 50 flights have been canceled at airports in the Balearic Islands. Spanish airport operator Aena warns that delays are likely to continue.
Regional rescue services reported that they received about 180 calls related to storm effects in just one weekend day.
