The Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Emergencies is maintaining the weather alert for heavy and persistent rainfall in eastern Spain. It is also being extended to other areas. Wednesday’s impact will be heaviest in Málaga, where about 80 litres per square metre will fall in 12 hours. Furthermore, thunderstorms will occur in Seville and Huelva.
The heavy rain weather alert will apply on Wednesday to the Valencia region, southern Catalonia and Aragon, Málaga, Almeria, Cadiz, Huelva, Seville, Ceuta, Murcia and Albacete. There are also warnings of strong coastal winds and heavy waves of 3 to 4 metres in large parts of the Mediterranean and the Balearic Islands.
What can you do in case of heavy rain?
In the event of sudden storms and heavy rainfall, it is advisable to consider where they park their vehicles. Moreover, the rapidly rising water can damage and even wash away vehicles parked in high-risk areas. Furthermore, apart from damage to one’s own vehicle, it can also damage other people’s property. Another tip is not to cross flooded areas. What is underwater is often not visible and can, therefore, be treacherous.
If driving
In view of this situation, the civil protection department advises motorists to drive more slowly, take extreme precautions and not to stop in areas where large amounts of water may flow and, if they do have to travel, to do so preferably on main roads and motorways. , If you are driving, a closed vehicle can be a good shelter. However, if you have to leave the car, or cannot progress your journey due to flooding, ensure you have warm, waterproof clothing and footwear in the vehicle.
In the countryside
Stay away from rivers, streams and low-lying areas on slopes and hillsides, cross flooded fords, go to the highest points in the area and keep an eye on the weather forecast. In the countryside there is the greatest risk of thunderstorms, do not shelter under trees or near wire fences and metal objects. In urban areas there is also a risk of lightning, seek protection close to buildings.
At home
In homes, keep windows closed and avoid drafts. If evacuation is necessary, it is wise to move essential items to higher floors, shut off the main electricity and gas supply and follow the instructions of the authorities.
Avoid the beach
If there is a danger of coastal winds, stay away from the beach – do not go there to take pictures – and from low-lying areas that can be affected by the high tides and waves usually caused by the strong winds.
Also read: The rain in Spain continues
