Spain’s Costa Blanca has been placed under an orange weather warning as heavy rain, hail and severe storms are forecast to batter some of the region’s busiest tourist areas.

The alert affects popular coastal and inland destinations across one of Europe’s best known holiday stretches, raising concerns for travellers, residents and businesses during a peak tourism period.

Weather officials said the warning covers intense rainfall and thunderstorm activity, with hail also expected in some places. The conditions could disrupt travel, outdoor activities and local services.

Orange warnings are issued when weather is considered dangerous and likely to cause significant impact. In practical terms, that can mean flooding on roads, difficult driving conditions and disruption to flights, ferries or rail services where storms are severe enough.

The Costa Blanca, which stretches along Spain’s south-eastern Mediterranean coast, is one of the country’s most visited holiday regions. It includes resort towns and beaches that attract large numbers of overseas visitors, especially during spring and summer.

Tourists in the area have been advised to follow local weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel during the worst of the storms and take care near flood-prone areas, open spaces and exposed coastal routes. Local authorities often warn that intense downpours in this part of Spain can quickly turn streets and underpasses into hazard zones.

Heavy rain warnings in the region can also affect mountain areas behind the coast, where runoff can build up fast and cause flash flooding. Hail and strong winds may damage vehicles, outdoor seating, awnings and beach facilities.