Campers from Tarragona aged 40: “It was like an apocalypse, pine trees falling all over”

The storm and hailstorm in Tarragona left fallen pine trees that blocked streets, houses, and vehicles in the Llevant urbanizations. Campers experienced chaotic moments with trees falling on their caravans and tents, a scene that still frightens them.

Rosa, a 40-year-old tourist, describes the storm as a true apocalypse. The situation was marked by the violence of the wind, which uprooted stakes and broke pergolas, but also by the luck that there were no injuries.

Impact on the Llevant Urbanizations

What damage did the fallen pines cause?

The neighborhoods of Entrepins, Monnars, Solimar, and la Móra saw dozens of pine trees taking down streets, cars, and houses. In Entrepins, the main street was blocked by fallen trees and electrical cables almost touching the ground, creating a latent risk situation for the residents.

In Monnars, two pines fell on a private house, breaking fences and affecting the roof. The impact was so strong that a heavy metal part of the chimney flew up to 30 meters, a clear demonstration of the force of the gale.

How are the neighbors reacting to this damage?

The residents have gotten to work cleaning and repairing the damages. With shovels and technicians, they are working to secure the houses and remove the fallen trees. Despite the commotion, the priority is to recover normality and avoid dangers with the damaged electrical wiring.

The Situation at Las Palmeras Camping

How did the campers experience the storm?

Rosa and her partner, who were spending a few days at the campsite, say the hailstorm was horrible and very chaotic. Pines were falling on every street, on caravans, motorhomes, and tents. Despite the stress, no one was injured, a huge stroke of luck given the magnitude of the storm.

Their caravans and cars suffered damages, such as a dented roof and a broken window. The pergola was broken, but the tent that served as a kitchen resisted thanks to the weight of the items inside.

What consequences does this have for the affected people's vacations?

Rosa and her partner’s vacation ended prematurely. Although they wanted to stay until Sunday, the need to manage the damages and the situation of the vehicles made them decide to return earlier. The status of their insurances and the repair of the cars are now the priority.

Local Context and Reflections

Why does this storm matter to Tarragona's residents?

The Llevant urbanizations, surrounded by forest, are especially vulnerable to storms like this. The large pines are part of the landscape but also a risk when the wind is so strong. The interruption of streets and the danger of electrical cables put residents on alert.

Furthermore, the impact on campsites affects local tourism, an economic engine of the area that depends on safety and tranquility for visitors. Damage management and prevention will be key to avoiding similar situations.

How are the urbanizations preparing for future storms?

Residents and local authorities are reviewing installations and tree maintenance to minimize risks. The experience of this storm reinforces the need to act quickly in extreme situations and ensure the safety of people and properties.

Coordination among technicians, residents, and emergency services is key to overcoming episodes like this without victims and with minimal impact possible.

The reality is that Tarragona and its Llevant urbanizations still have to face the force of nature, and the residents already know that prevention will be the best weapon against future hailstorms.

Source of the article: Eloi Tost / Gio Gonzales / Catalan News Agency