Briefing
The Government of the Balearic Islands reported on 20 October 2026 that the situation on the islands of Ibiza and Formentera was gradually easing after the heavy rainfall caused by cold drop “Adam” (often called DANA in Spain). The Direcció General d’Emergències i Interior noted that the most acute phase had passed, but that the alert level remained elevated because heavy showers were still possible locally.
Emergency crews from the fire service, Protección Civil and local services, as well as units of the Unidad Militar de Emergencias (UME), continued clearing flooded roads, pumping water out of buildings and securing damaged infrastructure. According to the authorities, numerous call-outs had been recorded; most incidents did not result in serious injuries. In affected municipalities, schools that had been temporarily closed or had shortened lessons were gradually reopening.
The state meteorological agency AEMET confirmed exceptionally high rainfall totals at several measuring stations. Initial assessments showed that the current October had been the wettest on Ibiza and Formentera since records began around 75 years ago. Hydrologists also warned that the response of waterways and drainage systems could vary considerably from place to place, and that local flash floods remained possible if further showers occurred.
The regional government stressed that the focus was now on clearing up the remaining damage, securing critical infrastructure and checking drainage systems. Residents were urged to follow official alerts, avoid underpasses and flooded stretches, and not to drive through areas affected by flood debris.
The authorities announced that consolidated situation reports with final figures for call-outs and damage would follow once assessments by the municipalities and island councils had been completed. Weather and emergency services remain in close coordination so that alert levels can be adjusted at short notice and necessary measures coordinated.
Editor: Andreas M. Brucker (Article created with AI assistance).