Gibraltar Introduces Three-Level Weather Warning System

Gibraltar has introduced a new Yellow, Amber and Red weather warning system, replacing the previous two-tier approach. The warnings will cover rainfall, wind speeds and swell, with each alert setting out the expected conditions, when they apply and what action the public should take.

A statement from the Government follows below:

HM Government of Gibraltar has moved to a new three-tier system for weather warnings: Yellow, Amber and Red. The system aims to make it clearer to the public how severe the expected conditions are and what action needs to be taken. 

The new levels replace the two-tier system introduced in 2019, which had weather advisories and severe weather warnings. As well as adding a third level, the new system sets thresholds for rainfall over one hour, not only over six hours. 

Warnings are issued by the Met Office, which has provided the severe weather warning service for HM Government of Gibraltar since November 2023. Each level is set by thresholds for rainfall, wind speed and swell. 

Red (Extreme) 

• Rainfall of more than 40mm in one hour, or more than 60mm in six hours • Wind speeds above 118 km per hour (64 knots) 

• Waves of over 5 metres 

Amber (Severe) 

• Rainfall of 21 to 40mm in one hour, or 41 to 60mm in six hours 

• Wind speeds of 83 to 118 km per hour (45 to 64 knots) 

• Waves of 4 to 5 metres 

Yellow (Moderate) 

• Rainfall of 10 to 20mm in one hour, or 25 to 40mm in six hours 

• Wind speeds of 63 to 82 km per hour (34 to 44 knots) 

• Waves of 3 to 4 metres 

Each warning published on the Government’s channels will show the level, the hazard, when it applies and what to do. The Royal Gibraltar Police will continue to publish information on road closures and diversions during severe weather. 

The Minister for Industrial Relations, Civil Contingencies and Sport, the Hon Leslie Bruzon MP, said: “The new system gives everyone a clearer picture of how severe the weather is expected to be, so that people can plan ahead and keep themselves and their families safe."