Severe Weather in Palma: Parks Closed, Weekly Markets Canceled – Orange Alert

Orange Weather Alert: Palma Quickly Hits the Brakes

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This morning the city center looked unusually quiet. The city administration closed all public parks in Palma to protect people from falling branches and toppled trees. This comes as no surprise if you believe the weather service Aemet: locally up to 140 liters per square meter in a short period are forecast, along with gusts of up to 90 km/h.

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Weekly Markets Canceled – Traders and Visitors Affected

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The organic market on Plaza de los Patines, the market in Can Pastilla, and the popular weekly market in Alcúdia have also been canceled for today. Several stallholders I spoke with briefly at the Santa Catalina Market Hall said they only received notice last night. "We're prepared, but customers still don't come in such weather," said Teresa, who sells olive oil. Many traders are calling their regular customers – a few phone numbers are flying around in WhatsApp groups.

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Local Damage and Precautions

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In Palma's district Son Ferriol, some streets were already flooded after heavy rain. Residents report ankle-deep water at driveways and churned storm drains. The fire department had to respond several times during the night to pump out flooded basements. Public transport is still running, but with delays and minor detours — lines 5 and 7 were briefly rerouted in the morning.

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The authorities' explicit plea: Stay at home, avoid walks in parks and seek sheltered places. If you have a balcony, secure loose items. If you must be out, plan extra time and keep your distance from trees and cordoned-off areas.

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A Routine, But Serious Tone

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Storms are part of autumn here on the island, but the timing is always unfortunate: the start of school and market Sunday coincide with the warning. Some cafés in the old town still open — with hot chocolate, blankets and the small beacon of hope that the rain will soon subside. For current information, authorities recommend the Aemet warning page and the local announcements of the city of Palma.

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I'll check Son Ferriol again; around 14:00 there was still an emergency vehicle on the street. And honestly: it's better to leave the umbrella at home today and stay indoors.