Valencia is bracing itself once again. The province, still reeling from the devastating effects of the recent DANA, is preparing for another bout of severe weather as warnings rise to an orange alert for heavy rain.
The first day of heavy rainfall in Valencia is expected on Wednesday, with some towns potentially recording up to 100 litres per square metre within a 12-hour period, according to meteorological models. This weather event won’t just bring intense rain; temperatures are also set to plunge. Coastal areas could see lows near 10°C, while some inland spots may drop close to freezing overnight.
Yo me pregunto…. ¿¡¿A que coj***s espera @AEMET_Esp para activar avisos rojos en Valencia y Málaga?? Estamos viendo todos que muy probablemente se va a liar gordisima pic.twitter.com/QHk6CE3EGu
— Jose Rey Meteo ☀️⛈️☃️🌈🌪️🌡️ (@JoseReyMeteo) November 12, 2024
The affected municipalities are scrambling to shield themselves, implementing preventive actions to mitigate further damages. Emergency plans are already in motion, with schools closing, embankments rising in dry riverbeds, and efforts underway to unclog the overburdened drainage systems.
Municipalities on alert
In a special advisory issued on 12 November, the Valencian Community Emergency Coordination Centre (CEE) warned of intense rainfall. Additionally, it confirmed that the province remains at Level 2 alert following the DANA that began on 29 October. Authorities have emphasised the need for municipalities to activate their emergency structures and maintain close communication with the CEE.
Schools closed
To safeguard the public, a number of municipalities, including Valencia City, Chiva, Aldaia, Sueca, Cullera, and several other towns across the province, have already suspended classes for Wednesday, 13 November. Torrent, in particular, has taken additional measures, cancelling school activities for both Wednesday and Thursday. Similar action is being taken in parts of Castellón, such as Benicarló, Alcalà de Xivert, and Peñíscola. The aim is to minimise movement and ensure public safety during the upcoming deluge.
Previously impacted areas
In areas heavily impacted by the last DANA, including Catarroja and Rafelbunyol, local authorities are urging residents to stay put and remain vigilant, warning them through loudspeakers to avoid unnecessary travel and keep an eye on the drainage systems. Embankments are even being erected in Aldaia to prevent flooding.
No entrance for volunteers
Furthermore, Valencia’s emergency coordination centre, CECOPAL has urged volunteers to refrain from assisting in certain outlying areas on Wednesday, citing severe weather conditions and risks associated with the ongoing DANA storm. In response to the region’s current flood alert (Phase 2) and due to limitations on movement, sewage infrastructure concerns, and further adverse weather warnings, authorities are restricting activity in affected zones. Emergency services will be the only personnel active in areas
Guidelines to follow
The CECOPI has stressed the importance of monitoring the weather in the Valencia region. Especially, from Tuesday afternoon, when heavy rain and coastal disturbances are expected. The regional director highlighted particular concern over the development of this weather episode due to the vulnerability of the affected areas and the risks faced by workers in the region. Some guidelines to follow are:
For coastal phenomena:
- Protect homes against potential seawater intrusion.
- Avoid coastal promenades, breakwaters, and cliffs.
- Do not drive along roads near the shoreline.
- Refrain from any water sports activities.
For heavy rainfall:
- Check the risk level for each municipality and if your home or workplace is in a flood-prone area.
- Stay away from riverbanks, and ravines, and avoid standing on bridges.
- Identify the highest points in your area and head there if flooding occurs.
More details can be found here.
Also read: Sánchez declares disaster zone in DANA-affected regions