Heavy rainfall causes major disruption in Málaga province

Junta de Andalucía activates emergency measures in Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Fuengirola, and Mijas

by Lorraine Williamson
heavy rainfall Málaga

The province of Málaga was severely impacted by extreme, heavy rainfall on 3 February 2025, particularly along the coastal areas west of Málaga city. The intense downpours have resulted in widespread flooding and prompted emergency responses in several municipalities, including Torremolinos, Benalmádena, Fuengirola, and Mijas.

The rain this morning was so intense along the A-7 coast road that many drivers including one of our editors struggled to maintain visibility. Windscreen wipers were unable to keep pace with the downpour, forcing cars to reduce speed significantly to ensure safety. Spray from vehicles on the opposite carriageway completely obscured visibility, making it impossible to see the road ahead. Drivers described the experience as frightening. The decision to continue to their destinations or turn back was complicated by flooded off-ramps, which made some exits unsafe to navigate.

Orange alert and severe flooding

The heavy rainfall in Málaga province began in the early hours and quickly escalated into torrential downpours. In Torremolinos, 80 litres per square metre fell between 8.00 and 9.00 am, leading the Spanish meteorological service Aemet to upgrade the weather alert from yellow to orange. Málaga and Fuengirola recorded 32 and 33 litres per square metre, respectively. The excessive rainfall has flooded streets, basements, and underground car parks, bringing traffic to a standstill in several areas.

Road and school closures

The Junta de Andalucía has activated its emergency plan, focusing on public information and risk mitigation. The A-7 highway, a major regional route, was closed in sections due to flooding, notably near Faro de Calaburras in Mijas.

In Torremolinos, the local government suspended school activities due to the severe weather. Schools remain open only for minimal supervision of students already on-site. Similar measures have been taken in other municipalities to protect residents.

Torremolinos is among the hardest-hit areas, with numerous reports of flood-related incidents. Authorities have advised residents to limit movement and keep schools closed until further notice.

Impact on other municipalities

Benalmádena has faced hazardous conditions due to flooding. In one case, a car became trapped in a flooded tunnel, but a local resident successfully rescued the driver. The municipality has activated emergency plans and deployed additional firefighters and police to manage the situation.

Fuengirola has also reported significant flooding, with several areas experiencing severe water accumulation. In Mijas, the storm has caused extensive damage, including the destruction of a pedestrian bridge along the Costa del Sol coastal walkway. The Sierra de Mijas has recorded over 60 litres per square metre, leading to substantial water accumulation and further issues within the municipality.

Junta de Andalucía activates flood risk emergency plan

The Junta de Andalucía has activated the Flood Risk Emergency Plan in its pre-emergency phase. Authorities are urging residents to exercise extreme caution and adhere to instructions from local officials.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local media and official municipal channels for the latest updates and information.

Weather forecast: More rain expected

Aemet has warned that the situation remains critical. Forecasts predict up to 100 litres per square metre could fall along the Costa del Sol within the next 12 hours. The weather front is moving from the Strait of Gibraltar towards the Axarquía region, potentially bringing even heavier rain to the eastern part of Málaga province later in the day.

Public advisory

Given the severe conditions, emergency services (112) are advising residents to avoid unnecessary travel. Drivers who must be on the roads should check traffic updates in advance and follow all official guidance.

The sudden and intense rainfall in Málaga highlights the region’s susceptibility to extreme weather events. The next few hours are crucial, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and stay informed.

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