The Interconnection between Climate Cycles and Geohazards in Urban Areas of the Tourist Island of Mallorca, Spain

A strong correlation exists between climate cycles and geohazards such as landslides and flash floods in Mallorca, Spain. The study identifies that the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), Quasi-Biennial Oscillation (QBO), and sunspot activity significantly influence rainfall patterns, which in turn trigger these hazards. Spectral analysis techniques revealed that QBO, with its higher frequency, is particularly notable as it appears embedded within other cycles during periods of heightened ENSO, NAO, and sunspot values. The research also highlights that urban areas like Palma and Calvià, along with the central and eastern parts of the island, are highly vulnerable to intense rainfall and its consequences. This finding underscores the need for targeted risk management strategies in these regions.

Luque-Espinar, J. A., Mateos, R. M., Sarro, R., Reyes-Carmona, C., & Martínez-Corbella, M. (2024). The Interconnection between Climate Cycles and Geohazards in Urban Areas of the Tourist Island of Mallorca, Spain. Sustainability, 16(12), 4917. https://doi.org/10.3390/su16124917