Balearic Islands remain on yellow alert for wind and coastal conditions

The Emergency Service 112 has downgraded the alert for strong winds and coastal phenomena in the Balearic Islands to yellow level following the evolution of Storm Kristin. As reported by the agency on social media, yellow warnings for coastal phenomena remain active on all islands, along with a yellow alert for strong winds in Menorca.

With the improvement in weather conditions, 112 has stood down the special emergency response deployed in Ibiza to deal with wind-related incidents, corresponding to IG-1 level of the Meteobal Plan.

The alerts are in line with the yellow warnings issued by the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) for Thursday 29th and Friday 30th of January. All islands remain under a coastal warning, with waves that may reach up to three metres, accompanied by westerly winds of up to 60 km/h. In Menorca, wind gusts of up to 70 km/h are expected on Friday.

During the episode caused by Storm Kristin, the 112 Emergency Coordination Centre handled a total of 109 incidents between 12:00 on Wednesday and 06:00 on Thursday, mainly related to the effects of strong winds.

In light of this situation, Emergency Services continue to stress a number of self-protection recommendations, such as avoiding walking near stone walls, advertising billboards, lampposts or high-voltage towers; keeping doors and windows closed; removing objects that could fall onto public roads; and avoiding parks or tree-lined avenues.

Extra caution is also advised due to the risk of falling rocks and trees, recommending that people avoid cliffs, ravines, embankments and unstable slopes, as well as reducing speed and limiting travel on mountain roads.

Regarding coastal conditions, authorities advise against accessing coastal areas affected by heavy seas, promenades, breakwaters or cliffs; refraining from water sports; securing the mooring of vessels; and alerting 112 if anyone falls into the water.

Looking ahead to the weekend, AEMET forecasts that yellow warnings for wind and rough seas will continue across the archipelago on Saturday 31st of January. In Mallorca, wind gusts of up to 80 km/h are expected, especially in the Serra de Tramuntana and the north of the island, while in Menorca gusts could reach 70 km/h. In addition, coastal areas on all islands will continue to be affected by waves of between three and four metres, with northerly and north-westerly winds.