The storms recorded last week, with hail mixed with water in most cases, have affected some crops in regions of Valencia, such as the Costera and the Vall d'Albaida, and others of Alicante, such as the Vinalopó or the Vega Baja.
The most severe damage was recorded in the Alicante region of the Vega Baja, between the towns of Albatera and Los Montesinos. The area affected by hail is not very large (some 50 hectares) and Callosa de Segura has been the most affected municipality.
Although the assessment of the damages is still ongoing, the most affected crops are apparently fruits and vegetables such as watermelons, pumpkins and citrus.
Also, vineyards have been hit in the regions of Alto Vinalopó and La Costera, in the area between Villena and La Font de la Figuera. The extent of this damage has yet to be assessed, but it will likely be considerable, as the plant is currently in a stage in which any climatological adversity can cause serious issues.
Meanwhile, in Vallada, the most affected crops are fruit trees such as apricots and Paraguayo peaches. Citrus and olive groves have also been hit, but it is still too early to have an estimate of the actual extent of the damage.
As regards the Vall d'Albaida region, the most affected area is that of Benicadell, including the municipal areas of Bèlgida, Otos, Beniatjar, Carrícola and Atzeneta d'Albaida. It was a hailstorm mixed with a lot of water (10 litres/m2 in ½ hour), which fortunately entailed less damage than if it had been dry stone. Apricots and peaches will be the most affected crops.