The military has been deployed to Ibiza for the second time in less than a fortnight following additional flooding that caused disruptions on the island. Severe weather conditions on the popular party destination recently led to the temporary closure of the airport for almost 90 minutes. Storm Alice hit Ibiza on Saturday evening after heavy rainfall across Spain’s east coast, affecting areas like the Costa Blanca. The airport in Ibiza had to cancel 24 flights due to water leakage and power outages caused by the intense downpour, with roads submerged under floodwaters.
AENA officials stated that airport operations were halted between 6pm and 7.20pm due to the adverse weather conditions. Twelve incoming and twelve departing flights were canceled, impacting British tourists among others. Military personnel from the specialized UME Armed Forces unit were dispatched to assist with flood warnings in Ibiza, returning to the island from their Valencia base.
The reinforcements were expected to arrive at around 5 am. Ibiza Town’s mayor, Rafa Triguero, confirmed road closures and emphasized the ongoing efforts to restore normalcy swiftly. He urged residents to stay indoors and exercise caution when traveling. Areas like Playa d’en Bossa, San Jose, and Santa Eularia also experienced flooding, with reports of devastation on the island. Majorca and Formentera were also affected by the adverse weather conditions.
Previously, on September 30, heavy rain led to flooding in Ibiza, causing damage to nightclubs and hotels. Three individuals were injured when rocks struck the Vibra Tropical Garden Apartments in Ibiza Town. The army assisted in rescue and clean-up operations during the recent flooding, which followed Storm Alice’s impact on various regions in Spain, including coastal areas in Murcia. Several individuals had to be rescued from their vehicles in places like San Javier and Los Alcazares.