This morning, the coastline near Sa Foradada in Mallorca witnessed a striking meteorological phenomenon: a waterspout, or sea tornado, forming just off the shore between Soller and Deya. The swirling column of air and spray was visible from several points across the Serra de Tramuntana, drawing attention for its height and proximity to land. Although not an everyday occurrence, waterspouts can develop when the sea is unsettled and the atmosphere is highly unstable—conditions that have dominated the island throughout this wintry spell.
Alongside the waterspout, the cold front affecting Mallorca has brought the first signs of wintry precipitation to towns in the Serra de Tramuntana such as Soller, Bunyola and Escorca. While some areas appeared to receive snow, much of what fell at lower elevations was actually small hail, formed by the sharp drop in temperatures and the turbulent air overhead. Strong gusts of wind, at times reaching 70–90 km/h, have intensified the wintry feel and contributed to the unsettled weather pattern.
Above video from METEO DE LES ILLES. Across the island, the day so far has been defined by cold, windy conditions, with maximum temperatures struggling to reach 10 degrees in several locations—unusually low for this time of year. Northerly and north-westerly winds have blown with considerable force, enhancing the chill and creating the potential for notable coastal conditions. The meteorological service has kept a yellow weather warning in place due to the blustery winds and the possibility of isolated hail showers and the odd thunderstorm.
Photos: Meteo de les Illes
Snow levels have dropped to around 700–800 metres, although actual snowfall has been limited and mainly symbolic. Should the winds ease during the night, frost may form in higher areas and sheltered inland valleys. Overall, the day so far has been marked by a thoroughly wintry atmosphere, dominated by cold air, gusty winds, scattered showers and the remarkable appearance of a waterspout off Sa Foradada.
Looking ahead to Sunday, the weather is expected to improve considerably across Mallorca. Daytime temperatures are forecast to rise sharply, potentially reaching 20 degrees in some parts of the island. Skies should remain mostly clear, with only a slight chance of a brief, light shower in the north. With westerly winds settling in, Mallorca is likely to return to calmer, more typical conditions after a Friday characterised by dramatic skies and uncommon weather events.