Barcelona closes parks and gardens due to risk of high winds

Due to the forecast of strong winds in Barcelona on Wednesday, the city council has closed the city's parks and gardens.

The weather event is due to Hurricane Kirk, which is no longer classified as a hurricane but as an extra-tropical storm.

The hurricane is expected to hit Catalonia this afternoon and into the night, bringing strong winds that could reach speeds of 70km/h in areas such as Barcelona.

At the capital's port, speeds of 61km/h were recorded by 5pm, while on the north coast of the territory, in Portbou, speeds of 87km/h were registered.

Advice for high wind events

In this type of weather conditions, authorities recommend closing and securing doors and windows, lowering blinds and checking fixed elements such as antennas and air conditioners.

Authorities also recommended to remove pots and objects from windows and balconies that could fall onto the street and cause an accident.

It is also important to be aware of vehicles parked on the street, as the wind can tip over motorcycles or other street furniture.

When outdoors, keep a safe distance from walls, trees, construction sites, or buildings in poor condition.