Menorca Activates Emergency Plan Amid 'Extraordinary Danger' Alert for UK Tourists
A rare red 'extraordinary danger' alert has been issued for the Spanish island of Menorca, prompting local authorities to activate an emergency plan as UK tourists and residents face severe weather hazards. The warning comes as the new week begins, with the Spanish meteorological agency AEMET predicting staggering winds of up to 140km/h and waves reaching 14 metres in the Balearic Islands destination.
Severe Weather Conditions and Immediate Actions
Menorca is currently under a mixture of red, amber, and yellow weather warnings, with the most extreme red alert indicating an "extraordinary danger" due to intense winds and massive waves. Forecasters report winds of up to 80km/h and waves nearing 13 metres, as recorded by the Puertos del Estado buoy at Maó, which measured its highest wave at 12.97 metres at 2pm. In response, the General Directorate of Emergencies and the Interior Department issued an EsAlert message, warning about ongoing hazards through Sunday night and urging caution.
Local authorities have closed access to the port due to fallen trees, fences, bins, signs, and detached metal sheets, while sports clubs have been advised to suspend all activities. Maritime activity remains suspended until Monday in southeast Menorca, where wind gusts have approached 120 km/h, exacerbating the dangerous conditions for tourists and locals alike.
Forecast Updates and Safety Measures
AEMET has provided updates on the weather situation, noting that on Monday, cloud cover is expected to decrease during the morning, transitioning to partly cloudy or clear skies. Temperatures will rise, but northerly winds will blow moderately to strongly with gusts of 70 to 80 kilometres per hour in northern Majorca during the morning, later reducing to light or moderate westerly winds. Despite this improvement, the agency warns of "significant danger," with north winds of 60 to 75 km/h and waves of 4 to 6 metres, potentially reaching up to 10 metres.
The National Plan for Prediction and Monitoring of Adverse Weather Phenomena, known as Meteoalerta, aims to deliver detailed and up-to-date information on adverse weather events affecting Spain up to 72 hours in advance. Once such phenomena develop, the plan ensures continuous monitoring and updates to keep the public informed and safe. This proactive approach is crucial in mitigating risks during extreme weather episodes like the current one in Menorca.
Residents and tourists are advised to stay indoors, avoid coastal areas, and follow official guidance from local authorities. The emergency plan's activation underscores the seriousness of the situation, as fallen debris and suspended activities highlight the immediate threats posed by the severe weather. With UK tourists among those affected, travel advisories and safety precautions are being emphasized to prevent injuries and ensure well-being during this hazardous period.
