Palma Mallorca: British hiker found dead during storm with search continuing for woman after tourists get trapped in torrent of water

A search is still continuing for the missing British woman caught up in the drama late yesterday (Tuesday 3 September) in the Torrent de Pareis, a popular walking route through a river gorge that is usually dry in summer. Regional emergency service workers confirmed early this morning (Wednesday 4 September) that a massive search involving police and firefighters was ongoing for two tourists before it emerged a body had been found.

The Civil Guard said in its first statement on the tragedy: “The Civil Guard yesterday rescued 10 people who were trapped in the Torrent de Pareis by a torrent of water. Our Greim unit established an operation throughout the day there to prevent possible accidents involving hikers who were in the area given the forecast of heavy rain.

“Given the experiences of previous years, when many visitors ignore weather conditions and end up getting trapped by high water, the decision was taken to establish precautionary measures. Thanks to this operation, and with the help of a Civil Guard helicopter, officers were able to save the lives of 10 people who were trapped, without protective clothing, and completely soaked. They were transferred to safety using guides to assist them.”

The force added: “Once they reached a safe spot the rescued walkers, two Spaniards and the rest French, German and British, told us two members of a group of five who were among those assisted had been swept away by a torrent of water and they had been unable to do anything to save them and didn’t know where they were. A separate search and rescue operation was mobilised until nightfall which began again today with assistance from firefighters.

“That operation had so far led to the discovery of the body which could be that of a 32-year-old British man. The operation for a woman of the same nationality is continuing.”

Several parts of Mallorca were affected by storms with heavy rain yesterday. The entire Balearic island has been placed on an orange alert today by the state weather agency Aemet. It has warned of “very strong winds” caused by storms of around 55mph to 75mph, adding that there is a possibility of there being hurricane winds.