Former Hurricane Gabrielle Heads for the Iberian Peninsula — Mallorca Prepares

An Early Whirlwind Makes Itself Felt

What was still far out in the Atlantic a few days ago is moving closer: the former hurricane Gabrielle is headed toward the Azores and on toward the Iberian Peninsula. I was at the cafe on Plaça Major this morning around 8:30, the waitress wiped the coffee cups and said, "This is not going to be a calm weekend." Many here can already feel it in the air.

When is what coming?

Weather services expect the storm system to reach the Azores on Friday. In the night to Sunday, the core is expected to hit the mainland coast. On Mallorca, that means initially: unusually warm air from North Africa over the weekend, followed by precipitation and a noticeable drop in temperature.

AEMET speaks of a "clear weather change" — a phrase not to be taken lightly. MeteoSur also warns that at the peaks of development, strong gusts could briefly form: models forecast gusts up to 200 km/h in the strongest parts of the system, though weakened as it transitions over the Atlantic.

What it feels like here

Today temperatures varied: in Sineu around 22.1 ºC in the morning, Port de Pollença at 21.9 ºC, the warmest in Manacor at about 24.7 ºC. These numbers may swing in the coming days — warmer at first, then noticeably cooler and wetter.

Fishermen I met early in the Port d'Alcúdia harbor were already securing lines and moving small items ashore. In Palma's old town, people looked at weather apps and swapped tips: bring in the parasol, secure the terrace, check the boats.

Practical notes

Even if there is still uncertainty about strength and exact track, it's wise to be prepared. Secure balcony furniture, check anchored boats on the ground, and heed authorities. Expect traffic disruptions on the weekend, especially on coastal roads and ferries.

We will keep an eye on the situation and report new information as forecasts become more concrete. Until then: better to have a few extra screws than too few.