Storm Benjamin Unleashes Severe Weather Across Spain, Prompting Widespread Warnings

Storm Benjamin Makes Landfall with Intense Conditions

Storm Benjamin, officially named by the French weather service Meteo France, has brought severe weather conditions to Spain, with its effects beginning on Wednesday evening, October 22, and intensifying through Thursday, October 23. The storm is characterized by high winds, heavy rainfall, and significant maritime disturbances, prompting widespread alerts from Spain's national weather agency, AEMET.

Extensive Weather Warnings Issued Across the Peninsula and Islands

AEMET has activated a range of weather warnings across the country. Status Yellow and Status Orange warnings are in effect for much of southeast Spain, while Red alerts have been issued for specific coastal areas, including parts of Cantabria and the Basque Country (Vizcaya and Gipuzkoa), due to exceptionally high waves and powerful winds. The storm's influence is not limited to the north, with warnings extending to the eastern Iberian Peninsula and the Balearic Islands, including popular tourist spots like Ibiza, Palma, and Menorca. Mainland tourist destinations such as Barcelona, Tarragona, Cambrils, Valencia, San Sebastian, Santander, Benidorm, and Levante Beach are also under alert.

Hazardous Winds, Towering Waves, and Persistent Rainfall Expected

The storm is generating ferocious wind gusts, with speeds anticipated to reach up to 90 km/h in many areas, and exceeding 100 km/h in some northern regions. Coastal regions are experiencing significant maritime storms, with waves forecast to top 7 meters, and potentially reaching up to 8 meters along the Cantabrian coast. Heavy and persistent rainfall is also a major concern. Torrential rain has been observed in northern and western Spain, with continued heavy daily accumulation expected inland northern Spain on Saturday. Light rain is forecast for inland and central Iberia on Friday, and showers are likely across the Spanish mainland and the Balearic Islands on Sunday. Temperatures are also expected to drop across the Balearic Islands, central, and southern Spain.

Impact on Travel and Public Safety Advisories

The severe weather poses significant concerns for residents and holidaymakers, particularly those traveling for the bank holiday weekend. Authorities are warning of potential travel disruptions, especially for those planning outdoor activities or visits to beaches. Hazardous driving conditions are anticipated due to heavy rains and strong winds. In response to the storm, areas like Palma have taken precautionary measures, closing beaches, the Sagrera Promenade, and parks in Ribera and Bellver. AEMET and local authorities urge the public to:

• Monitor local forecasts and official warnings.
• Avoid outdoor activities, especially on beaches and in watersports.
• Exercise caution when traveling and avoid unnecessary journeys during peak storm conditions.

Outlook for the Weekend

While Thursday brought the brunt of Storm Benjamin, AEMET has cautioned that damp, blustery, and cooler conditions are expected to persist throughout the entire weekend. The storm marks the second major weather system of the season, signaling the onset of Atlantic storms for Spain.