Despite warnings of heavy rain, Valencia city was largely spared as the latest DANA storm diverted to other parts of the region. The Spanish weather agency Aemet had issued a red alert, prompting city officials to close schools, send emergency alerts, and restrict movement across 163 towns.
However, the anticipated deluge in Valencia itself failed to materialise, with only light showers around 10.00 pm. Instead, neighbouring towns like Llíria, Torrent, and Sueca experienced intense rainfall, with local gauges recording up to 50 litres per square metre in just one hour. In Cullera over 90 litres per square metre were recorded. Around midnight, the Poyo ravine, which became infamous during October’s flooding, saw its flow rise dramatically. In Llíria, 30 litres of rain fell within half an hour, surprising locals. Meanwhile, Sueca’s Mareny Blau was drenched with over 55 litres in just an hour after midnight. Rainfall reached 70 litres by 3.30 am.
Limited damage in Cullera
According to Jordi Mayor, the mayor of Cullera, the downpours did result in “stones and mud being swept along,” which municipal services are now clearing from the streets. Aemet, the Spanish meteorological agency, had issued a red weather alert for the Valencia coastline until 2.00 pm today, but this has since been downgraded to an orange warning. The Generalitat Valenciana had taken precautionary measures, including closing schools, sports facilities, and community centres.
Minor disruption in other municipalities
In Riba-roja del Turia, several streets in the El Oliveral industrial estate were closed due to flooding. The CV-374 road also had to be shut down as the sewage system became clogged with mud. Nevertheless, the disruption was manageable, according to Mayor Robert Raga.
The mayor of Paiporta, Maribel Albalat, described the night as “calm.” The sewage system, which previously caused significant problems, managed to cope with the rainfall this time, thanks to the efforts of the fire brigade and the military emergency services.
In Alaquàs, the expected heavy rain did not materialise. Mayor Toni Saura reported that the drainage system functioned well, and the local stream remained within safe levels. “There was a lot of fear among the residents, but fortunately, it wasn’t as bad as anticipated.”
In Chiva, Godelleta, and Torrent, there was light rainfall without any significant damage. Restrictions remain in place, including school closures and limitations on mobility, until the situation is deemed fully safe. Authorities remain vigilant, but the overall assessment from last night is cautiously optimistic.
Red alert ends without major incident in Valencia
In the city of Valencia, residents prepared for severe downpours that never came. Even Mayor María José Catalá urged people to stay home and had police and fire units deployed to vulnerable areas. However, the heavy showers bypassed Valencia entirely. The alert, which was raised for potential rainfall of 180 litres in four hours, ended with no significant incidents in the capital itself.
Outlook for the coming days
The rain is expected to continue heading south, returning towards Gandia later on Thursday. Meteorologists anticipate lighter rain over the coming days. The sun is likely to return by Sunday, offering a break from the recent unsettled weather.