The Balearic Islands are one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations.The Balearic Islands are composed of four main islands - Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera

The Balearic Islands are composed of four main islands – Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera(Image: Aemet)

British holidaymakers in parts of Spain have been issued a weather warning as tourists across the popular hotspot could face thunderstorms and torrential downpours.

Spain’s national weather agency Aemet has placed large parts of the Balearic Islands – made up of Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera – under a low-level weather alert on Sunday (May 3). The warning is in force from 8am until 1.59pm local time.

The Balearics are among several regions across Spain facing unsettled weather, with much of the country set for a stormy day. Heavy showers, thunderstorms and even hail are possible across eastern and northern parts of the mainland.

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Eastern parts of the mainland have also been issued a weather warning from around midday until midnight tonight. Several northern regions have also been placed under a yellow warning throughout Monday (May 4).

Parts of Spain have been issued a weather warning for Sunday, May 3

Parts of Spain have been issued a weather warning for Sunday, May 3(Image: Aemet)

Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to sweep across the country. Forecasters say some areas – particularly the Balearic Islands – could see up to 20mm of rain in just one hour, raising the risk of flooding and travel disruption.

Thunderstorms are also expected to batter the islands throughout the morning, potentially bringing frequent lightning, sudden downpours and difficult conditions for anyone travelling or spending time outdoors, Aemet said in its forecast.

Aemet warned that rain could become particularly intense in the Balearic Islands during the first half of Sunday, with storms likely to strengthen further into the afternoon across other parts of Spain.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms forecast across parts of Spain at 11am local time, May 3

Heavy rain and thunderstorms forecast across parts of Spain at 11am local time, May 3(Image: Aemet)

The latest forecast will come as disappointing news for thousands of Brits hoping to enjoy early May sunshine on the Spanish islands, which remain one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations.

Travellers are being advised to keep up to date with local forecasts, allow extra time for journeys and take care near roads that may be prone to flooding and coastal areas during any storms.

While the weather is expected to improve later, conditions are likely to remain unsettled across much of Spain throughout the day and into Monday.