Heavy rainfall and storms have struck northeast Spain and parts of the Castile-La Mancha region in central Spain over the weekend. The adverse weather conditions have resulted in two fatalities in Catalonia, with one person still missing. According to authorities, the rain has caused widespread flooding, particularly in areas around Barcelona. The Spanish Meteorological Agency reported that storms began to subside in the Barcelona area around midday on Sunday but were moving northwards.
The regional fire brigade chief, David Borrell, stated that two people had died, and at least one person was missing. Rescue teams assisted numerous individuals trapped in their vehicles due to flooding in Granollers, north of Barcelona, and other areas. Public events were canceled in high-risk zones, and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez urged citizens to avoid non-essential travel and follow emergency instructions. Sanchez described the situation in Catalonia as "extremely complex."
The regional government of Catalonia warned of potential flooding in Girona, located between Barcelona and the southwest French border. Residents were advised to stay indoors in areas surrounding the rivers Riera de Arbúcies and Daró, which had overflowed. Over 200 millimeters of rain fell in several areas of Barcelona. Authorities and emergency services were on high alert, working to mitigate the effects of the severe weather.
Scientists suggest that climate change, caused by human activity, is increasing the intensity of Mediterranean storms that typically hit eastern Spain in autumn. As the sea absorbs more heat during the summer, it leads to increased evaporation and heavy rainfall. This weather pattern has resulted in multiple fatalities and widespread damage in various regions.
In addition to the two deaths in Catalonia, a 102-year-old woman died on Saturday due to the severe weather. The Spanish Meteorological Agency warned of continued adverse conditions, with storms expected to move northwards. Authorities urged citizens to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
The situation in Catalonia remained critical, with multiple areas affected by flooding and landslides. Emergency services worked tirelessly to rescue those trapped and provide assistance to those affected. The regional government continued to monitor the situation closely, working to mitigate the impact of the severe weather.
As the storms subsided in some areas, attention turned to the aftermath of the severe weather. Cleanup efforts began, and authorities assessed the damage caused by the flooding and landslides. The full extent of the damage and the number of people affected were not immediately clear, but it was evident that the severe weather had had a significant impact on the region.
Key points
- Two people died in Catalonia due to heavy rainfall and flooding.
- Over 200 millimeters of rain fell in several areas of Barcelona.
- Authorities warned of continued adverse weather conditions, with storms expected to move northwards.
