The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a warning to Brits planning to travel to Spain, or those already in the country, with “severe” weather warnings issued. The FCDO, which is responsible for providing updated information and alerts regarding travel to more than 200 countries worldwide, issued a new alert on Friday morning (October 10).

The warning reads: “Severe weather warnings are in place today in Murcia and Valencia, including the province of Alicante. Disruptions to travel are likely. If you are in the affected areas, follow the advice of the local authorities and monitor local weather updates.

“If you are planning to travel, check for messaging from your travel provider or airline.”

This update comes ahead of significant changes to travel rules for Spain and other European destinations, set to come into effect on Sunday (October 12). The much-anticipated new Entry/Exit System (EES) will commence on October 12, requiring UK travellers to provide additional details.

The EES will be an automated IT system that registers UK travellers, including short-stay visa holders and those exempt from visas, each time they cross an EU external border. This system will record the traveller’s name, type of travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and facial images), as well as the date and place of entry and exit, all while respecting fundamental rights and data protection.

Once the EES is launched, holidaymakers will need to create a digital record on their first visit to the Schengen area at the port or airport upon arrival. They’ll be required to provide fingerprints and have their photo taken at dedicated booths.

There’s no need for travellers to submit any information before heading to a Schengen area country. However, if they’re jetting off to a country within the Schengen area, they should brace themselves for longer queues upon landing at their destination.