Mallorca set for the big freeze this weekend

THE big freeze is due to reach Mallorca tomorrow (Friday).

This weekend will be “one of the coldest in recent years” on the island, according to the State Metrological Agency (AEMET). Snowfall could reach as far down as sea level from tomorrow (Friday).

Friday is expected to be the coldest day with a wind chill factor of -8oC in some places, including Palma de Mallorca.

Charity ‘Age UK’ has warned people to wrap up warm as the cold can kill, especially the elderly.

Between Friday and Saturday maximum temperatures are not expected to exceed 6oC.

On Saturday and Sunday temperatures could plummet to below zero in parts of the Island, including Palma de Mallorca, and as much as -4oC in Lluc. Wind chill factor could reach -5oC on Saturday and -3oC on Sunday.

By Sunday, temperatures should start rising gradually with minimum temperatures above zero and maximum up to 8oC and by Monday minimum temperatures will be around 3oC and maximum 10oC and the rain should have stopped.

Elderly at risk Michelle Mitchell, charity director general at Age UK said: “Low temperatures raise blood pressure which puts people at a greater risk of heart attacks and strokes as well as increasing the likelihood and severity of flu and other respiratory problems.”

People are advised to check local weather forecasts on the radio or via the internet, these can be seen in English on Spain’s met office website www.aemet.es (click on the word ‘welcome’ on the top right).

Snow expected Meanwhile, snowfall was forecasted to start last night at around 1,100m above sea level. By today it was expected to reach 900m, according to Balearics Metrological Agency, Agusti Jansa.

In the coming days the Balearic Islands can expect heavy rains and strong winds. Every three or four years, rain can fall in the form of snow and reach as far down as the shoreline, according to Jansa.

In winter 2005 there was large snowstorm that left many of Mallorca’s beaches in a blanket of snow.

Snow also reached the south of Mallorca in 2001. Winter 1956 saw streets in Mallorca’s villages in centimeters of snow.

By Nicole Hallett