A popular Spanish island frequented by British vacationers has been struck by a winter storm, resulting in heavy snowfall and powerful waves hitting the area. Local residents and tourists sought shelter from an unexpected hailstorm that brought severe weather conditions to Majorca, prompting a weather warning for the day. Tourist spots on the island were transformed into a snowy landscape as temperatures dropped across the Balearic island. The Spanish meteorological agency AEMET issued an orange weather alert on Thursday, urging caution among residents and visitors due to the possibility of further harsh weather conditions.
AEMET advised, “Stay vigilant and monitor the current weather forecast regularly.” The agency specifically cautioned against beach and coastal visits, anticipating 40-foot waves along the eastern coast of Majorca. AEMET emphasized the potential for damage to individuals and property, especially for those in exposed areas or vulnerable conditions.
The storm brought strong 90kmph winds, expected to persist throughout the day. Additionally, the sudden winter storm brought snowfall to the island amidst the hailstorm. Striking visuals captured the sizeable hail pieces that pummeled the island, with reports likening them to walnuts.
Yellow weather warnings were issued island-wide the previous day, with expectations of more severe weather conditions unfolding today. Across southern Europe, a winter storm led to a significant drop in temperatures, potentially contributing to the unusual weather on Majorca.
Similar weather warnings were issued on the Spanish mainland, with forecasts indicating heavy snowfall in regions like Santander, Bilbao, and the Cantabrian Mountains, where up to 25cm of snow could accumulate within a 24-hour period. Inland mountain areas near Santander were put on alert for around 20cm of snow, while locations near Navarre and northern La Rioja could expect up to 10cm. Even typically milder inland regions close to San Sebastián were predicted to receive approximately 5cm of snow as colder air spreads across the northern coast.
Meanwhile, Brits may also face heavy rain and snow as a storm approaches the UK in the coming days. Parts of the nation could see up to 10cm of snowfall. Weather predictions suggest that cold weather will sweep across the UK on December 4, with rain expected in various regions and significant snowfall likely in central and northern Scotland.
Forecasts for December 5 indicate snowfall in England, initially concentrated around the Yorkshire Dales and Pennines before spreading. Cities like Manchester, Leeds, and Sheffield may also experience snowfall by late afternoon on that Friday.