The storm ‘Herminia’, which has already put 16 autonomous communities in the Peninsula in check.which has already put 16 autonomous communities in the Peninsula in check, has led the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Natural Environment to issue an orange alert in Ibiza and Formentera due to the high risk of forest fires.
According to current regulations, all activities that could generate sparks or fire are prohibited, including the burning of plant debris, due to adverse weather conditions. These include wind gusts of up to 70 km/h and low humidity, which significantly increase the possibility of ignitions.
The alert map issued by the Govern de les Illes Balears places the Pitiusas in Alert Foc 3 level, which implies the suspension of all authorizations for the use of fire, as well as the need to take extreme precautions. This level of alert is usual in periods of high danger, which in Ibiza extends from April 1 to October 15, but this time it has been activated outside that range due to the incidence of the squall Herminia.
Recommendations from the Ibiza Fire Department
The Bombers d’Eivissa, through their social networks, have insisted on the need to avoid outdoor activities that may pose a risk of fire. Among their advice they highlight:
- Secure loose objects on balconies and terraces, such as flower pots, furniture or clotheslines, to prevent wind damage.
- Keep doors and windows closed to prevent drafts that could fuel possible fires.
- Avoid wooded areas or areas with dense vegetation, as well as areas with unstable structures such as scaffolding.
Impact of the storm in the Balearic Islands
In addition to the risk of forest fires, squall Herminia is generating adverse maritime conditions, with waves of up to 4 meters and southwest winds of force 7. Although maritime connections in Ibiza and Formentera remain operational, cancellations are not ruled out if conditions worsen.
The situation could become more complicated in the coming hours, with Herminia expected to evolve into an Isolated High Level Depression (DANA) by mid-week, intensifying the adverse phenomena in the archipelago. Local authorities continue to monitor the development of the storm and issue updates to ensure the safety of residents and tourists.
