Storm Adam Causes Widespread Disruption in Spain, Ibiza Airport Closed
Torrential rains and flooding have led to flight cancellations, diversions, and emergency service responses across several Spanish regions.
Storm Adam has caused significant disruption across Spain, leading to the closure of Ibiza Airport and widespread travel chaos. The powerful Mediterranean storm has prompted flight diversions to other parts of the country as regions in western Spain, including the popular holiday island, battle heavy rainfall.
The Spanish weather agency AEMET had issued warnings for torrential rain as the storm approached on Saturday. The highest red alert was issued for the eastern region of Valencia. Emergency services in Valencia, Catalonia, Andalusia, and the Balearic Islands reported hundreds of incidents, including flooded homes, fallen trees, and material damage.
Mass telephone alerts were sent in Valencia and the Balearic Islands of Ibiza and Formentera, urging residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise caution. In Ibiza, roads were inundated, with garbage bins and cars partially submerged by floodwaters. Beach resorts on the island were deserted.
Ibiza Airport reported at least five flight cancellations, 16 diversions, and delays. Air traffic controllers stated the airport was not operational, managing mass diversions to alternative airports. Images from inside the airport showed overflowing sewers in the departures area, and several large tarpaulins covering outdoor areas collapsed under the weight of collected water. Parking areas and approaching motorways were blocked off by floods.
The storm has also resulted in fatalities. A woman died on Saturday after being swept away while attempting to cross a river in the Catalonia region. Her body was later found by rescuers in the sea. Emergency units from the mainland were deployed to assist with the crisis in Ibiza and Mallorca.
In the Andalusian province of Almeria, emergency services reported that the deluge left people isolated by water and conducted 37 rescues since Saturday. In Oliva, Valencian Community, emergency personnel assisted a rescued person from an area affected by floods.
Scientists suggest that human-driven climate change is intensifying Mediterranean storms, leading to increased evaporation and heavier rainfall. This follows a period where mainland Spain experienced its hottest September on record, and its warmest summer between June and August.