# Sea level oscillations in the Balearic Islands

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/sea-level-oscillations-in-the-balearic-islands
> Updated: 2026-08-28T11:41:39.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 3.

The Balearic Islands have been impacted by ‘rissagas’—meteorological phenomena causing sudden sea-level oscillations, often referred to as mini tsunamis. Unlike traditional tsunamis, these surges are triggered by rapid changes in atmospheric pressure rather than seismic activity.

In Ibiza, specifically Sant Antoni de Portmany, the surge hit s’Arenal beach, flooding streets and restaurants. The seawater damaged technical equipment, coolers, and bar supplies. Due to electrical hazards and security concerns, the local government cancelled a scheduled tribute concert for the Sant Bartomeu festivities, though some traditional celebrations and fireworks continued.

In Mallorca, the phenomenon affected several ports, including Alcudia, Andratx, Soller, and Port Adriano, with seawater flooding sections of the beachfront promenade in Puerto Alcudia and reaching outdoor dining spaces. 

The situation became more pronounced in Menorca. While initial alerts predicted oscillations of up to 1.2 meters, later reports indicated that water levels in the port of Ciutadella fluctuated by up to 1.44 meters. On the night of August 28, the Bay of Santandria was completely flooded, causing water to enter the ground floors of hotels and businesses. Emergency services were required to pump out water, though no reports of damage to yachts or immediate injuries have been confirmed.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-28: Meteotsunamis cause flooding and water fluctuations in Mallorca and Menorca

Meteotsunamis, or 'Rissagas', caused significant water level fluctuations and flooding in parts of Mallorca and Menorca, though no damage to vessels has been reported.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/meteotsunamis-cause-flooding-and-water-fluctuations-in-mallorca-and-menorca

### 2026-08-25: Balearic Islands hit by mini tsunamis causing coastal flooding

Mini tsunamis, or ‘rissagues,’ caused seawater to flood streets and restaurants across the Balearic Islands, forcing the cancellation of a concert in Ibiza and impacting ports in Mallorca and Menorca.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/balearic-islands-hit-by-mini-tsunamis-causing-coastal-flooding

### 2026-08-24: Rissaga sea level oscillations impact Menorca and Ibiza

Sudden sea level oscillations known as 'rissagas' have impacted Menorca and Ibiza, forcing the cancellation of a concert in Sant Antoni de Portmany due to safety risks to electrical equipment.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rissaga-sea-level-oscillations-impact-menorca-and-ibiza

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Cite as: Sea level oscillations in the Balearic Islands. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/sea-level-oscillations-in-the-balearic-islands