Spain Travel Alert for UK Holidaymakers: Should You Delay Your Trip? |

Spain Travel Alert for UK Holidaymakers: Should You Delay Your Trip?

Eastern Spain is grappling with extreme flash flooding this week, marking one of the most severe weather events the region has faced in decades. Heavy rains have impacted popular travel destinations along Spain’s eastern coast, from Valencia to Málaga, causing significant travel disruptions.

Storms have struck key holiday spots, disrupting travel plans for many visitors. Spain’s air navigation office reports ongoing delays at major airports, particularly affecting flights to and from Palma de Mallorca and Valencia.

Flight Disruptions and Recommendations:

Palma de Mallorca: Due to adverse weather, flights arriving in Palma on Friday face possible delays. Passengers should check with airlines for real-time flight updates.
Valencia Airport: Wednesday saw over 30 flight diversions and 49 cancellations, with airlines re-accommodating impacted travellers. Although Friday morning saw minimal disruptions to incoming flights, some departures experienced minor delays.
Jerez and Seville Airports: Heavy rain on Thursday prompted authorities to advise travellers to check with airlines on flight status before heading to the airport.

Spain’s airport authority, Aena, advises travellers flying from Valencia and other affected airports to confirm flight status and road conditions with their airline and consult official sources for updates on local routes, which may also be affected by flooding.

UK Government Travel Advisory

As of October 31, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cautions travellers of potential delays due to severe weather affecting southern and eastern Spain, especially around Valencia and Castilla-La Mancha. The FCDO advises checking the latest updates from Spain’s meteorological service and following local authorities’ instructions.

The European Meteorological Services also issued an urgent warning, urging only essential travel to Castellón’s southern and northern coasts, as well as the northern interior. “Extreme or catastrophic damage to people and properties may occur, especially for those in vulnerable or exposed areas,” the advisory states.

What About Cancellations and Refunds?

The Foreign Office has not advised against travel to Spain, so travellers looking to cancel trips for a full refund might face limited options. Here’s what you should know:

Contact Your Holiday Provider: If you’re considering postponing your trip, speak with your provider to understand your options.
Travel Insurance: Check your policy for natural disaster coverage. Some policies cover natural events that prevent you from reaching your destination, but be sure to confirm details with your insurer.

Floodwaters can pose severe risks, and recovery can be lengthy, with potential hazards like water-borne diseases and transportation disruptions in affected areas. Travellers should be cautious, stay informed, and prioritise safety.

As conditions evolve, check local advisories and prepare for potential delays. This may not be the ideal time to visit Spain’s eastern coast if you’re looking for an uninterrupted holiday.

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