A rare red weather alert has been issued for Almonzera Valley in Andalucia where winds could reach speeds of up to 130km/h.

Irish tourists travelling to Spain are being warned of torrential rain, thunderstorms and strong winds as severe storms trigger weather alerts in popular holiday hotspots.

Many Irish people are making the most of their Christmas and New Year holidays by escaping the winter chill at home and heading to Spain - however unusual weather is now threatening their breaks.