Warning: cold snap returning

Palma meteorological office is continuing to monitor the unsettled weather which appears to be sweeping back and forth across the Balearics and other southern and eastern parts of Spain. After Wednesday morning's heavy downpours in the Balearics, yesterday's sun caught many people by surprise. However, the heavy rains which spent yesterday wafting off southern Spain, returned to Majorca late last night and are expected to remain in the region for most of today. The met office has warned that the rains will be heavy at times and that the cold snap will return with a vengeance this weekend, but not before another heavy and humid day today. The Civil Protection department and the emergency services are remaining on alert in the event of localised flooding and storm damage. Drivers are being urged to proceed with caution if caught in a sudden heavy downpour while extra traffic police will be on duty co-ordinating their operations with the eye-in-the-sky traffic control helicopter. Shipping has also been reminded to keep a close watch on the weather. Hikers planning trips into Majorca's mountains are urged to carry the correct equipment and make sure that their families or hotels know where they are heading.