Else Beekman
The Guardia Civil has confirmed the discovery of the body of a man who was swept away by strong currents while attempting to cross the Ramonete ravine in Lorca (Murcia) with his van. His body was found along the coastline, near the mouth of the ravine.
The man, a 50-year-old local farmer, went missing on Sunday, in the early afternoon. Emergency services immediately launched a large-scale search operation, covering the ravine and extending to its coastal outlet at Puntas de Calnegre.
Several emergency units were involved in the search, including Civil Protection and Emergency teams from Lorca, the Local Police, and the Guardia Civil. Firefighters were also deployed to retrieve the van, which was found without the victim inside.
Dangerous flood conditions
Authorities had earlier identified this area as one of the most hazardous during the recent heavy rainfall. As a precaution, local officials had temporarily closed the affected section of the ravine between Ramonete and Puntas de Calnegre to traffic, pending cleaning and reopening.
To enhance the search, the operation included aerial support from a regional government helicopter and a drone unit operated by the Local Police, working in coordination with the GISC (Specialist Search and Rescue Group).
Local community deeply affected
The tragic incident has deeply affected the local community. In response, the Lorca City Council activated the Municipal Emergency Service to provide psychological support to the victim’s family. Local authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents to exercise extreme caution when navigating flood-prone areas, especially during adverse weather conditions.
The risks of ramblas and drainage areas
In Spain, dry riverbeds known as ‘ramblas’ and drainage areas pose a significant risk during heavy rainfall. These usually dry areas can suddenly turn into dangerous torrents, leading to flash floods and severe damage.
DANA in Valencia
A recent example is the DANA (Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos) that hit the Valencia region in late October 2024. This meteorological phenomenon brought record-breaking rainfall, with 771.8 litres per square metre recorded in Turís. The resulting floods were catastrophic, particularly in the province of Valencia, causing at least 232 fatalities and extensive material damage.
Flood in Murcia
Similar events have occurred in the past. On 19 October 1973, a flood in the Rambla Nogalte in Murcia killed 84 people and devastated Puerto Lumbreras. More recently, on 28 September 2012, another flood in the same area caused significant damage, though improved infrastructure helped prevent greater loss of life.
Three million people live in high-risk flood areas
Human activity further exacerbates the risks in these areas, particularly urbanisation in flood-prone zones. In Spain, approximately three million people live in high-risk flood areas. A fact that highlights the urgent need for effective urban planning and infrastructure to mitigate such dangers.
Cities like Alicante have introduced innovative solutions, such as the construction of La Marjal Park, a flood-resistant green space designed to absorb excess rainwater while promoting biodiversity. The council is considering replicating this model in other vulnerable areas of the city.
Be aware of the risks posed by ramblas
It is crucial that both authorities and residents remain aware of the risks posed by ramblas and drainage areas during the rainy season. People should avoid lower-lying areas during heavy rain, never park their vehicles in drainage zones, and under no circumstances attempt to cross riverbeds with even the slightest water flow, as currents can become deadly in an instant.
Also read: Flooding Zaragoza: ring road and school built in watercourse