Meteotsunamis cause flooding and water fluctuations in Mallorca and Menorca

Mini-tsunamis, scientifically known as meteotsunamis, have been observed along several coastlines of Mallorca and Menorca. In Mallorca, unusual water level changes were reported in Port d’Alcúdia, Port d’Andratx, Port de Sóller, and Port Adriano, with water reaching shore areas and outdoor dining spaces.

The situation was more pronounced on Menorca. In the port of Ciutadella, water levels fluctuated by up to 1.44 meters, and the Bay of Santandria was completely flooded on the night of August 28, causing water to enter the ground floors of hotels and businesses. While the phenomenon caused dramatic visual effects and required emergency services to pump out water, there have been no reports of damage to yachts.

Unlike tectonic tsunamis caused by seabed movements, these meteotsunamis are triggered by rapid atmospheric pressure changes that cause the entire body of water to oscillate, creating strong currents during the rapid filling and emptying of harbors.