Catalonia on Highest Alert
According to information released by the Catalan Meteorological Service (Meteocat) on August 5, 2026, several areas in Catalonia are facing a severe threat from strong convective weather due to a rapidly intensifying system. The danger level for the Solsonès region has been raised to the highest level, 6 out of 6, indicating an extremely high risk.
The alert warns of the possibility of large hail, destructive high winds, and does not rule out the formation of tornadoes or landspouts. Additionally, several neighboring regions, including Berguedà, Cerdanya, and Alt Urgell, are also on high alert.
Town of Solsona Hit by Giant Hail
Shortly after the warning was issued, the weather in the municipality of Solsona deteriorated rapidly, with dense hail falling from the sky. Images shared by local residents on social media show that the hailstones were enormous, about 5 cm in diameter, comparable in size to a one-euro coin or even an egg. The sudden hailstorm forced pedestrians on the streets to scramble for shelter under eaves and in doorways.
Alert Escalation and Weather Forecast
Prior to this maximum-level alert, Meteocat had already issued a heavy rain warning for 15 regions in Catalonia earlier in the morning, mainly concentrated in the provinces of Lleida and Tarragona. As the weather system intensified, the meteorological department decided to further elevate the alert level for certain areas.
The forecast indicates that in the coming hours, affected areas could see rainfall of up to 20 liters per square meter within 30 minutes, accompanied by wind gusts exceeding 25 km/h and thunderstorms. The extreme weather is expected to continue.
Authorities Issue Safety Guidelines
In response to the severe weather situation, the meteorological department strongly advises residents to stay indoors as much as possible and reduce unnecessary outdoor activities. Authorities specifically warn against traveling to mountainous areas, near riverbeds, or other low-lying, flood-prone zones to prevent risks of flash floods and urban flooding. Residents should closely monitor official weather updates and follow all safety instructions to ensure personal and property safety.
