Storm Martinho Hits Spain: Severe Weather Causes Widespread Disruptions and Warnings

As storm Martinho makes its presence felt across Spain, the country faces a wave of severe weather characterized by heavy rainfall, cold temperatures, and rising river levels. Following the earlier storm Laurence, Madrid and other regions now find themselves plunged back into conditions reminiscent of winter, prompting urgent responses from local authorities.

The recent meteorological changes have especially impacted Madrid, where the Manzanares River is under stringent surveillance due to a significant increase in its flow rate—up by 15 times. Despite the mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, asserting that the city is currently stable, he cautioned against complacency. Rains are set to return by noon, with forecasts predicting an additional 10 to 15 liters per square meter, threatening the stability of the already swollen river.

In light of these developments, potential road closures, notably the A6 at its junction with the M30, have been discussed. The Municipal Police and Civil Guard are ready to implement diversion plans should the situation worsen, and they urge residents to minimize unnecessary travel in flooded areas. The rising waters have already affected various university campuses, resulting in the suspension of classes to protect students and staff from the hazardous conditions.

“Stability does not mean we can ignore the risks,” emphasized Almeida, reinforcing the need for vigilance as meteorologists have warned that rainfall will intensify throughout the weekend across different regions of Spain.

Across the country, hundreds of local incidents have been reported as heavy rain triggers floods, leading to evacuations and road cut-offs. In Avila, 41 children and their adult supervisors were rescued from a flooded retreat. Meanwhile, in Seville, numerous residents faced similar fates, alongside road closures due to flash floods in urban areas. Authorities mobilized evacuation efforts in response to overflowing rivers, leaving emergency services stretched thin.

The ongoing storm conditions don't just pose immediate concerns; they also hint at significant regional disruptions. In Utrera, local authorities reported saturation of land and overflowing riverbeds, which led to structural collapses in some areas. Emergency services dealt with stranded vehicles and rescues, showcasing the wide-reaching impacts of storm Martinho.

Meteorologists predict a drastic weather shift this weekend, with temperatures dropping significantly—between 5 to 10ºC below the seasonal average—and potential snow at lower altitudes. This ongoing instability will last through the weekend, with heavy clouds and rain anticipated over the Central System, the Cantabrian Mountains, and the Pyrenees.

While the storm is expected to weaken by Saturday, the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has warned of persistent unstable weather and the possibility of severe storms, particularly in the north. Winds will also pick up strength, causing additional concerns for coastal and mountainous regions.

In light of these developments, the Ministry of Labor has recommended that employers promote teleworking, further emphasizing the importance of reducing in-person exposure during this dangerous weather event.

As storm Martinho continues to leave its mark, residents are urged to stay informed, prepared, and cautious as conditions evolve. The latest updates will be crucial in the coming days as Spain grapples with the aftermath of this severe weather crisis.

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