At least five people had to be rescued off the beaches of Granada on Sunday evening after a freak storm struck the Costa Tropical.
The affected beaches included Torrenueva Costa and Carchuna, with videos shared online showing beds and possessions being blown across the sand, while families ran for cover.
The Guardia Civil and maritime rescue teams rushed in after strong winds – described by Motril Town Hall as ‘almost hurricane-force’ – struck suddenly at around 8pm, generating a storm surge and even a waterspout off Torrenueva Costa.
Several people on inflatables and beach equipment were blown offshore and unable to paddle back.
A Guardia Civil patrol boat carried out sweeps of the area while Maritime Rescue and local lifeguards assisted in pulling people to safety.
Emergency line 112 Andalucía said it received nearly 20 calls as gusts toppled tree branches and sent debris flying along the Costa Tropical.
Authorities in Motril and Almuñécar urged residents to avoid going outdoors until conditions eased.
The Guardia Civil rescued three people who were off La Joya beach in Torrenueva Costa.
Separately, a motorboat rescued two other young women who were having trouble navigating and took them to the port of Motril.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
