British tourists planning a holiday to Spain have been cautioned as the country prepares for the arrival of Storm Kirk, which has been downgraded from a hurricane. Amber and yellow weather warnings have been issued across various regions of Spain in anticipation of this storm. The north-western parts of the country are expected to bear the brunt of the adverse weather conditions, with forecasts predicting very strong wind gusts and heavy rainfall.
Southwestern Asturia region could experience winds of up to 120km/h (approximately 75mph). Amber warnings for a “violent north-west wind” have been implemented along the Cantabrian and Biscay coastlines, indicating the possibility of hurricane-force gusts in regions like Cantabria, Galicia, Pyrenees, and northern Iberia. Central Spain is also likely to witness winds reaching speeds of up to 80km/h. The north coast has been advised to brace for stormy weather, with amber warnings issued, while yellow coastal alerts are in place for areas such as Almeria, Castellon, Tarragona, and Barcelona.
Further predictions for Wednesday, October 9, by the Spanish meteorological service, Aemet, suggest that the remnants of Hurricane Kirk will linger over the northwest of the peninsula, resulting in cloudy skies and advancing precipitation from west to east across most of Spain. The Pyrenees, Cantabrian region, western Central System, and Galicia are expected to receive the heaviest rainfall. The prevailing wind conditions are deemed the most significant aspect of the weather. Gale and strong winds are forecasted for various parts of the country, including the Cantabrian Sea, the Peninsula, and the Balearic Islands.
The Balearic Islands, including Ibiza, Majorca, and Mallorca, are likely to experience force 7 winds (60km/h) and waves reaching up to 3m. As the storm approaches, yellow warnings have also been put in place for these regions. The Spanish meteorological service has advised caution and preparedness for inclement weather conditions as Storm Kirk makes its way through Spain, impacting various coastal and inland areas. British tourists are urged to monitor weather updates and take necessary precautions while travelling in Spain during this period.