A MAJOR warning has been issued to Irish holidaymakers as Storm Konrad is set to hit a popular and busy tourist hotspot.
Irish tourists heading to Spain this week should be prepared for a dramatic change in the weather.
Spain is set to be hit with stormy conditions this week[/caption]
Storm Konrad will bring thunderstorms and strong winds[/caption]
Known for being one of Ireland’s top sunbreak destinations, Spain is experiencing a rare spell of stormy conditions that could disrupt the travel plans of many holidaymakers.
Named Storm Konrad by the Portuguese meteorological service, this weather event is already causing major issues across the country.
For those heading to the southern coast of Spain, a Status Yellow warning is in effect as the area prepares for the arrival of heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and high waves.
Rainfall amounts is set to be intense, with forecasts suggesting up to 15mm of rain within just one hour in some areas.
And wind gusts are expected to reach speeds of up to 70km/h.
What’s more, the waves along the coast could reach heights of two to three metres, making conditions dangerous for those planning to spend time by the sea.
The Canary Islands aren’t escaping the storm either, as they are under Status Yellow warnings due to massive waves ranging between four and five metres.
Spain’s weather service AEMET said: “A new low pressure system will move over the Iberian Peninsula, leaving skies very cloudy to overcast with widespread rainfall.
“Scattered thunderstorms and small hail are possible, accompanying the showers. Maximum temperatures will drop across the Iberian Peninsula. Strong gusts are expected.”
Weather bosses have alerted tourists what to expect in various regions of the islands – with Lanzarote and Fuerteventura set to experience cloudy periods and a low chance of light showers.
Other islands, such as La Palma, Tenerife and Gran Canaria, will also see cloudy skies, but rain is expected to be more scattered especially in the afternoons.
Although the temperatures in the Canary Islands won’t shift too much, maximum temperatures are expected to drop slightly, particularly in higher altitude areas.
Strong winds in Tenerife’s central peaks will bring intense gusts, with exposed peaks on the western islands and Lanzarote may face stronger gusts later in the week.
AEMET added: “In Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, cloudy periods with a low probability of light, scattered showers during the early morning and late afternoon.
“On the other islands, cloudy periods with scattered showers will occur during the second half of the day, especially in western La Palma and northern Tenerife, and are likely in eastern Gran Canaria.
“Minimum temperatures generally show little change, and maximum temperatures will drop slightly, more pronounced in mid-mountain areas and peaks.”
Storm Konrad is expected to continue throughout the week, with the worst of the conditions hitting Friday and today.
For Irish tourists, this could lead to major disruptions to outdoor activities and travel plans, especially in the southwestern and central parts of Spain.
Holidaymakers are being warned to stay updated on local forecasts and adjust their plans as necessary to avoid dangerous conditions.
