The solar eclipse on 12 August concluded across the Balearic Islands with a positive overall assessment and just 46 incidents related to the event, none of them serious. Director General for Emergencies and Interior Pablo Gárriz described the outcome as a “success for Balearic society”, highlighting the responsible behaviour of the public and the effective coordination between the different organisations involved.
The ECLIPBAL Protocol was activated to ensure surveillance, safety and an effective emergency response throughout the historic event. The specific operational plan complemented and adapted the PLATERBAL Territorial Civil Protection Plan for the Balearic Islands and remained in force until 11.30 pm on Wednesday, 12 August.
During the 24-hour period, the 112 Emergency Coordination Centre received 2,340 calls and recorded 46 eclipse-related incidents. Mallorca accounted for 34 cases, while eight were registered in Ibiza, three in Menorca and one in Formentera.
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Eclipse day hailed as a «success for Balearic society»
Traffic-related problems were the most common, accounting for 12 incidents. Among the most significant operations were two maritime rescues in the Cap Blanc area. Three people were rescued from a vessel that caught fire, while another operation assisted five people aboard a boat that had broken down.
Around 3,000 personnel took part in the overall operation, with as many as 2,147 professionals deployed simultaneously during the busiest hours. Emergency and healthcare services, police forces, firefighters, Civil Protection volunteers, the Civil Guard, National Police, Maritime Rescue, the Military Emergency Unit and numerous national, regional, island and municipal organisations were involved.
Coordination was managed through a Main Command Post at the Balearic Islands 112 Emergency Coordination Centre, together with three Advanced Command Posts in Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. This structure enabled resources across the four islands to be managed efficiently.
The busiest period for emergency calls was between 9 pm and 11 pm, when 471 calls were received. The highest number of eclipse-related incidents occurred between 9 pm and 10 pm, with nine cases recorded during that hour.
The 26 designated safe observation areas established throughout the Balearic Islands also operated successfully, providing prepared locations from which residents and visitors could experience the exceptional astronomical event.
The eclipse generated considerable scientific and international media interest. A total of 98 scientists were accredited, including international specialists coordinated through six Balearic astronomical organisations. Media coverage involved 335 accredited professionals representing 49 Balearic, Spanish and international media outlets.
The absence of serious incidents, combined with the coordination of emergency services and the responsible behaviour of the public, marked the conclusion of a historic day that required months of preparation and an extensive special safety operation across the Balearic Islands.