A 65-year-old man has died and a 60-year-old woman has been injured after a large boulder broke away from a cliff and crashed into a house in Es Castell, Menorca.
What happened
The rock fell onto the house early in the morning, partially collapsing the building and trapping the occupants. Firefighters and Guardia Civil officers rescued them from the rubble, but the man could not be saved. The woman was taken to Mateu Orfila hospital in Maó with multiple injuries.
Questions over the slope
The cause of the rockfall has not been officially established. Residents say they have noticed more rockfalls and small landslides in recent years, especially after heavy rain. Geologists point out that prolonged rain can weaken cliffs and slopes, particularly where rock is fractured, increasing the risk of collapse.
The incident has prompted questions about the stability of slopes near homes and about the safety of buildings in areas at risk.
The response
The authorities have said they will inspect slopes and homes in at-risk areas to assess whether action is needed. Measures used elsewhere to protect buildings below cliffs include rock anchors, protective netting, barriers and regular monitoring.
A growing risk
Extreme rainfall events have become more frequent in the western Mediterranean, and the Balearics have seen several episodes of intense rain in recent years. Combined with development close to cliffs and steep slopes, that increases the potential for incidents like this one.
Condolences
The tragedy has caused deep sadness in Es Castell, a small town at the mouth of Maó harbour, where neighbours have expressed their condolences to the man’s family and their wishes for the injured woman’s recovery.
Residents who notice cracks, falling stones or other signs of instability near their homes are advised to report them to their town council or, in an emergency, to call 112.
