Strong winds and record high waves have caused damage and chaos in Spain's northern resort city of San Sebastian, flooding buildings and sinking boats, the El Pais newspaper said on Tuesday.

"High waves of up to 10 meters (33 feet) destroyed the sea-front and sank at least 50 boats," the newspaper said.

The newspaper also said that water had flooded the basements and ground floors of many buildings in the city, including the City Hall, as well as washing away dozens of cars.

The Spanish state meteorological service said stormy winds and heavy rains were expected to continue for the next few days in the north of the country.