Tourists fled beaches across Mallorca on Monday after sudden sea surges known as meteotsunamis, or rissagas, sent water inland at several coastal locations. The events on August 24 affected Alcúdia, Sóller, Andratx and Port Adriano in Calvià.
Water levels rose abruptly, covering sections of beach, reaching promenades and flooding outdoor areas of restaurants and bars during the peak summer season.
Eyewitness account from Alcúdia
British holidaymaker Stephen Looney, 39, was on the beach in Alcúdia with his family. He said: “It never got higher than ankle height, but just kept on coming. We grabbed the kids and ran back to the hotel. I really feel for the local business owners.”
In Puerto Alcúdia the sea swept onto the beachfront promenade. Holidaymakers waded through water and terrace bars were affected. Similar activity was reported in Sóller and Andratx.
Warnings and wider impact
In Menorca, Ciutadella recorded an oscillation of 86cm. Warnings remained in place for possible sea-level changes of up to 1.2 metres, with some forecasts citing nearly 1.5 metres.
A concert on the beach in San Antonio, Ibiza, was cancelled after seawater flooded the site.
Cause and advice
Meteotsunamis are caused by rapid changes in atmospheric pressure rather than underwater earthquakes or landslides. The pressure disturbances transfer energy to the sea, producing sudden surges that can be amplified near the coast.
The Balearic Islands are known for the phenomenon, particularly in certain harbours. Spain’s meteorological agency Aemet had issued warnings.
No injuries were immediately reported on Mallorca. Coastal businesses, including beach bars, restaurants and watersports operators, faced disruption from the flooding of outdoor areas.
The same conditions later produced sea-level swings of up to 70cm within minutes along parts of the Costa Blanca and Valencia coastline, including Gandia.
Visitors were advised to follow instructions from lifeguards and local authorities and to move away from the water if conditions became unusual.
