Severe Storm Causes Major Disruptions Across Eastern Spain

A powerful storm has struck the eastern regions of Spain, resulting in significant flight cancellations, road closures, flooding, school suspensions, and emergency rescues. The Valencian Community is currently under a red alert for extreme weather, particularly along the coast, where rainfall is expected to reach as much as 180 liters per square meter within twelve hours. Rubén del Campo, a spokesperson for the State Meteorological Agency (Aemet), has warned of adverse conditions in the coming hours, particularly for the Mediterranean coastline, where total rainfall could exceed 300 liters per square meter. The red alert is set to remain in effect until dawn for Valencia province, while Tarragona and Castellón have downgraded their alerts to orange, indicating a significant risk of continued heavy rains. Starting tomorrow, the storm is anticipated to move towards the Balearic Islands, prompting authorities to raise the alert level in the region to orange as well, with expectations of intense rainfall accumulating rapidly. Del Campo clarified that this storm is different from a previous event in October, where flash floods affected interior regions. This time, the primary concern is in situ flooding in areas experiencing the most intense rainfall, alongside sudden increases in river flows that could pose additional risks. Public safety officials have urged residents to exercise caution and stay updated with official weather warnings. Firefighting teams in Castellón and Valencia have already conducted multiple rescues, including situations where vehicles were stranded in rising waters. Rain accumulation reportedly exceeded 100 liters per square meter in several areas. An estimated 239 municipalities across the Valencian Community suspended classes for the day, impacting over 536,851 students due to the heavy rainfall. Furthermore, disruptions in transportation include delays in several flights at Valencia airport, with four flights being canceled. Rail traffic also faced interruptions as the storm continued to impact mobility throughout the region. In Castellón, emergency services responded to eight incidents linked to the severe weather, particularly rescuing individuals trapped in vehicles. While the major reservoirs in affected areas remain stable for now, caution is still advised by the Júcar Hydrographic Confederation, as they project the potential for worsening conditions. In Aragon, the Huerva River reached alert levels early in the morning due to increased flow, peaking at 263 meters before being downgraded to yellow alert later in the day. Emergency services faced a surge of activity, managing 126 incidents and receiving numerous calls related to water inundation in garages, streets, and disrupted traffic. Civil Protection in Catalonia has also sent alerts to residents in storm-affected areas, advising restraint during travel and urging people to avoid outdoor activities and dangerous flood-prone areas. Interior Minister Núria Parlon noted that while the worst of the storm has passed for regions like Baix Ebre and Montsià, where school closures affected about 25,000 students, it remains crucial for residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential further disruptions. As the storm system progresses towards the Balearic Islands, authorities continue to monitor conditions closely, ready to act as needed for public safety. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2 • Source 3