A major storm is likely to wreak havoc across Spain with residents given a huge safety warning.

Authorities are on alert as Storm Caetano may bring in strong winds, heavy rain and dangerous maritime conditions.

The State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has called for heightened precautions in various areas of the popular European country, reports Canarian Weekly. 

Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro and Tenerife are under yellow alerts due to the risk of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall, particularly in mountainous areas. 

AEMET has advised residents to secure outdoor items and avoid coastal zones prone to high waves.

While the Canary Islands face yellow warnings, orange alerts indicating significant risk have been issued for Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, the Basque Country and the Valencian Community. 

These regions may experience wind speeds of up to 90 km/h, with waves reaching up to five metres along the Cantabrian coast.

Additionally, other regions, including Andalusia, Aragón, the Balearic Islands, Castilla-La Mancha, and Catalonia, are under yellow alerts for strong winds and heavy rain. Some areas could see gusts of up to 80 km/h, while Asturias and Galicia are expected to receive up to 40 liters of rain per square meter.

Asturias also faces snowfall warnings for elevations above 1,100 metres, and severe wind conditions are forecast for several inland areas of Spain. As the storm system Caetano intensifies over northern Spain, it is bringing overcast skies to northern and Atlantic-facing regions, while the Mediterranean coast will experience intervals of partial cloud cover.

Local authorities and emergency services have implemented contingency plans, advising residents in coastal and mountainous regions to avoid unnecessary travel and stay updated through official weather advisories.