Spain has been battered by a powerful weather system, with authorities issuing urgent safety warnings as Storm Melissa brought intense rainfall, violent winds and widespread flooding across parts of the country.
In Barcelona, streets turned into fast-flowing rivers as hail and heavy rain pounded the city. Meteocat, Catalonia’s meteorological service, placed the region on orange alert and advised residents to remain indoors, warning of dangerous conditions on the roads.
The holiday island of Mallorca was also severely hit, with fallen trees, flooded roads and grounded flights causing chaos for travellers. Local officials confirmed significant delays and disruption at Palma airport.
Barcelona–El Prat Airport reported at least 47 flight cancellations on Tuesday, affecting both domestic and international travel. Air traffic management agency Enaire said storms across the northeastern peninsula had forced the implementation of stricter safety regulations, slowing airport operations.
Social media footage from Barcelona and coastal towns showed cars attempting to drive through deep floodwater, while lightning strikes sent pedestrians running for cover.
Emergency services said they had responded to dozens of flood-related incidents, including stranded motorists, blocked highways and collapsed drainage systems. Local councils urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and maintain “extreme caution” around low-lying areas.
Meteorologists say Storm Melissa is expected to continue affecting parts of northeastern Spain through Wednesday, with further rain and strong gusts possible before conditions gradually improve later in the week.
Source:Africa Publicity
