Else Beekman
The rising waters of the Adaja and Chico rivers have flooded parts of southern Ávila, leading to road and bridge closures in the city. Authorities have shut down traffic on the AV-900 and the Juan Pablo II bridge (N-403), while pedestrian access to affected areas, including El Soto Park and sports facilities, has been restricted.
Authorities declared a Level 1 emergency due to this imminent risk of flooding. The territorial delegate of the Junta de Castilla y León, José Francisco Hernández, confirmed the alert as water levels continue to rise.
The flooding particularly affected areas near El Soto Park, the Plaza de Toros, and the Adolfo Suárez Municipal Stadium, where large sections of the grass pitch have been submerged. Ducks were seen swimming on the field, just hours before a scheduled Segunda RFEF football match between Real Ávila and Bergantiños.
The city council has restricted pedestrian access to all flooded areas, including parks, sports facilities, and walking paths. They have urged residents to exercise caution and avoid approaching the affected zones.
In Navaluenga, Navarrevisca, and Burgohondo, the Alberche River is dangerously high. Meanwhile, in the capital, the Adaja River has already overflowed in some areas.
Authorities urge caution
Officials are calling for public caution. Residents are advised to follow official instructions to ensure their safety. The Junta is coordinating efforts with Civil Protection, the Subdelegation of the Government, and the Provincial Council.
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The town of Navaluenga has asked residents to stay indoors as flooding impacts local streets. In Sotalbo, located in the Valle Amblés, rivers have also burst their banks.
Strong winds add to the crisis
The storm, named ‘Jana,’ is not only causing floods but also extreme winds. In the Puerto del Pico area, gusts have reached 112 km/h, adding to the chaos. Trees have fallen, debris is flying, rooftops are damaged, and emergency services are stretched thin.
The alarm service 112 registered around 30 incidents across the city, though no injuries have been reported. Meanwhile, the effects of the storm extend beyond Ávila. In the province, landslides have hit secondary roads, and the Tormes River has overflowed, particularly affecting the aforementioned town of Navaluenga and other nearby areas.
The famous city wall remains closed due to safety concerns. Public gardens and parks are also off-limits.
Meanwhile, firefighters are busy securing loose objects, including containers displaced by the wind. In Santa Ana Square and Mercado Chico, debris and loose tiles pose additional dangers.