A 26-year-old British woman has died and a British man remains missing after flash floods struck the Spanish island of Mallorca. The pair were reportedly swept away in a torrent while hiking in the northwest region of the island. The incident occurred in Torrent de Pareis, a popular yet challenging canyon in the Tramuntana mountain range, known for its narrow pathways leading to the sea.

Rescue Efforts Hampered by Severe Weather

Emergency services launched a search operation after receiving reports of missing hikers on Tuesday September 3. Initial reports mistakenly identified the recovered body as male, but authorities later confirmed it to be that of the 26-year-old woman. The search for her missing companion, a 32-year-old British man, continues, though rescue efforts have been significantly hindered by ongoing poor weather conditions.

Specialized teams from the Guardia Civil and Mallorca’s Fire Department have been combing the canyon area, using helicopters to evacuate other stranded hikers. Ten people were rescued, including several without adequate protective clothing, after being trapped by the rising waters.

Storm Warnings Across the Region

The flash floods are part of a larger weather system affecting not only Mallorca but also the broader Balearic Islands and Spain‘s eastern coastline. The region has been under a severe weather alert for heavy rains and strong winds, with the Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) declaring an orange alert. In addition to the tragic hiking incident, the storm has caused widespread disruptions, including flight delays and localized flooding.

Flooding and Transport Disruptions

Floods have inundated homes and businesses, leading to multiple rescues in Mallorca and surrounding areas. Emergency services reported 135 incidents by late Tuesday, including flooded ground floors, fallen trees, and blocked roads. The adverse weather has caused delays at airports across the Balearic Islands, with air traffic controllers issuing warnings of potential further disruptions.

The storm’s impact extends beyond the Balearic region, affecting other parts of Spain, including Cataluña, where torrential rains have forced the postponement of major events like the Louis Vuitton Cup regattas. In Hellín, Albacete, emergency teams rescued six people trapped in vehicles and homes as heavy rains brought down nearly 90 liters of water per square meter in a single hour.

Weather Warnings Persist as Search Continues

As weather conditions remain severe, officials warn that the worst may not be over. Alerts are in place across several regions, including Cataluña, where storms are expected to intensify, bringing heavy rains and strong winds. The search for the missing hiker in Mallorca remains a priority, but authorities caution that the weather is complicating rescue operations.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the need for caution when venturing into areas prone to extreme weather conditions. As the search continues, hopes are still held for the missing hiker, even as the island deals with the broader impacts of this severe storm.

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