Monday, September 16, 2024 Britishs have been flocking to Spain for decades, but now tourists heading to Majorca may soon notice some drastic changes. Authorities on the popular island have issued a warning that, due to global warming, the landscape could look significantly different in the near future. Majorca is a top destination for British holidaymakers, offering everything from the lively nightlife of Magaluf to serene villages far removed from typical tourist spots.
Regular budget flights from the UK make it an easy and attractive getaway. However, experts say that by 2050 , areas like Palma , Alcudia , and Cala D’Or could begin to resemble a desert if current climate trends continue. A study from the UPC’s Centre for Land Policy and Valuation (CPSV) reports that if global warming continues at its current rate, Spain will experience a dramatic reduction in rainfall over the next few decades.
The study, titled “Spain: Towards a Drier and Warmer Climate,” warns that rainfall could decrease by 14% to 20% by 2050 , leading to a significant shift from a Mediterranean to a more desert-like climate. These climate changes are expected to affect Spain’s tourism industry, particularly in regions like Majorca that thrive on mild weather, especially during the winter months. The Balearic Islands are especially vulnerable, and tourists visiting year-round could notice these shifts sooner rather than later.
The effects of global warming aren’t limited to Majorca. Researchers warn that the entire Balearics and Spain could face severe challenges due to rising temperatures and shrinking rainfall levels. This comes at a time when Spain remains one of the most popular destinations for tourists across Europe, especially during September, which is the second most popular month for travel after August.
Meanwhile, travelers heading to Spain and other Schengen area countries should prepare for new rules being introduced this month. The Entry/Exit System (EES) will apply to travelers visiting Austria , Belgium , France , Germany , Italy , Spain , and other Schengen nations. Under the EES, UK passport holders will have their fingerprints and photos taken upon entry to strengthen the security of the EU’s external Schengen borders.
However, one advantage of the system is that UK travelers will no longer need to have their passports stamped when entering and exiting Schengen countries. As climate change continues to reshape the landscape of popular holiday destinations like Majorca, both tourists and the local tourism industry will need to adapt. While the Mediterranean charm of Spain may endure for years to come, the island’s environment could be dramatically altered if global efforts to mitigate climate change are not implemented swiftly.
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