Mallorca schools cancelled as severe weather alerts sound across Balearic Islands

Mallorca schools cancelled as emergency phone alerts warn of severe flooding risk

The emergency intervention battalion BIEM3 heading to Mallorca Credit: X/UMEgob

Schools and universities across Mallorca, Ibiza and Formentera will close on Monday, October 19, as the Balearic government responds to dangerous weather brought by Storm Adam.

The decision follows warnings of torrential rain, thunderstorms and potentially life-threatening flooding, with emergency alerts sent directly to residents’ mobile phones urging them to take precautions.

The suspension covers educational centres and university campuses across all three islands, following recommendations from the Directorate-General for Emergencies and Interior and coordination with the regional education authorities.

Emergency alerts sent to residents’ phones

Civil Protection has issued emergency notifications warning residents about the risk of intense rainfall and flooding.

People have been urged to avoid unnecessary journeys, stay away from flood-prone areas and follow instructions from emergency services. Anyone who finds themselves threatened by rising water should move to a safe location and call 112 if they need urgent assistance.

The warnings come after torrential downpours caused flooding on roads and streets in Ibiza and Formentera, disrupting travel and prompting authorities to strengthen emergency measures.

Red weather alert as Storm Adam approaches

The Balearic Islands are facing different levels of weather warnings as Storm Adam brings heavy rain and thunderstorms.

The Spanish meteorological agency AEMET has raised its warning to red, the highest level, for parts of Mallorca overnight, including the south, interior and Llevant. Rainfall could reach 90 litres per square metre in one hour in the worst-affected areas.

The rest of Mallorca is under an orange warning, while Ibiza and Formentera are facing a serious risk of further heavy rainfall and flooding.

Forecast accumulations could reach 160 litres per square metre in the Pityusic Islands and 140 litres per square metre in parts of Mallorca.

The authorities have activated the second operational level of the Inunbal flood emergency plan in Ibiza and Formentera.

Military emergency teams deployed

The Military Emergency Unit (UME) has been mobilised to help local emergency services respond to the storm’s impact.

Personnel are being deployed from Valencia to support operations in Mallorca and Ibiza, as authorities prepare for further incidents caused by heavy rain and flooding.

The emergency response follows reports of flooded streets, blocked roads and other weather-related incidents across the islands.

Parks and public spaces closed in Palma

Palma City Council has also introduced precautionary closures as the storm approaches.

Parc de la Ribera and Can Terrers are closed from Sunday morning until 7pm on Monday, October 19.

Bellver Park and Passeig Sagrera are also due to close from midnight until 2pm on Monday under the city’s emergency plan.

Residents should check official announcements before visiting parks or public spaces, as further restrictions may be introduced depending on weather conditions.

What families and residents need to know

Parents should check communications from their children’s schools and the GESTIB education platform for updates about the suspension of classes.

The closure applies to educational establishments and university campuses, rather than constituting a general suspension of work or a blanket closure of businesses.

Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, never drive or walk through floodwater, and keep away from torrents and other areas where water levels could rise rapidly.

Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as Storm Adam moves across the Balearic Islands. Residents should follow the latest AEMET forecasts and official emergency service updates.

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Written by

Lottie Verrier

Lottie Verrier is a journalist and digital media specialist based in Mallorca. After a decade in London media, including a role as Deputy Editor for the MailOnline’s eCommerce division, she now combines her editorial expertise with a passion for the island to create engaging content that celebrates the best of life in Spain. Instagram @lottieinmallorca

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