Recent weeks have seen Spain battling severe storms, known as Depresión Aislada en Niveles Altos (DANA), leaving a trail of destruction, especially in Valencia.
After the tragic storm in Valencia, which resulted in over 200 deaths and many more missing, another DANA has struck, bringing fresh challenges to Spain. This time, AEMET (the Spanish State Meteorological Agency) has issued red weather alerts for regions including Andalucia and Catalonia, with varying alert levels in other parts of the country.
With these extreme weather conditions ongoing, residents and visitors alike need to be prepared, stay informed, and have access to key emergency contacts. This guide offers crucial information to stay safe during these DANA storms.
Essential emergency contacts in Spain
In times of crisis, quick access to emergency services is critical. Below are key emergency numbers and resources to help you stay prepared:
- Main Emergency Number (112): Free to call from anywhere in Spain, 112 is the primary emergency number for all types of incidents. English-speaking operators are available to assist.
- Ambulance Services (061): For medical emergencies, call 061 to get direct ambulance assistance.
- Fire Brigade (Bomberos – 080): In case of fires or related incidents, dial 080.
- Police Services: Spain’s police services are divided among different branches:
- Local Police (092)
- National Police (091)
- Guardia Civil (062)
- English-Language Helpline (902 102 112): For those who may struggle with the local language, this emergency helpline provides English-speaking support.
- Red Cross (902 222 292): The Spanish Red Cross is also a critical resource, offering support in emergencies and disaster situations.
Reporting missing persons
With severe storms, the risk of missing persons increases. If someone is unaccounted for, you don’t need to wait 24 hours to report their absence. Here’s what you need to know:
- Contact the National Missing Persons Centre (CNDES): Send an email to colaboracion-cndes@interior.es or call SOS Desaparecidos at their 24-hour helpline, 649 952 957. You can also email them at info@desaparecidos.es.
- Information to Provide:
- Full name, date of birth, and a recent photograph.
- Last known location and time of the disappearance.
- A physical description and details of what they were last seen wearing.
- Relevant health or medical conditions, including any vital medications.
Essential apps and resources to stay informed
Technology can be a lifesaver in emergency situations. For those in Spain, the AlertCops app is highly recommended. This app allows you to report emergencies and includes a location-sharing feature, helping the police locate you in urgent situations. AlertCops covers a wide range of scenarios beyond natural disasters, offering critical assistance in situations where you or someone else may be in danger.
Preparing for and responding to severe weather
When severe weather alerts are issued, take the following steps to ensure safety:
- Monitor updates: Regularly check local news channels, weather updates, and official announcements from AEMET.
- Stay indoors: Avoid unnecessary travel, especially in areas under high alert.
- Emergency kit: Prepare an emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, passports, ID, and essential medicines.
- Secure your home: For those in vulnerable areas, consider protecting windows and securing any outdoor items that could become projectiles in high winds.
Reducing future risks and learning from recent events
Spain’s recent DANA storms underline the importance of preparedness. As cleanup efforts continue in Valencia, local authorities urge everyone to stay cautious and adhere to safety advisories. Reducing risk requires collaboration between residents, emergency services, and government agencies.
Spain is facing an unprecedented season of storms, and staying prepared and informed is crucial. With reliable emergency contacts, prompt action, and access to important tools like the AlertCops app, everyone can better navigate the ongoing DANA storms.
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