Severe weather across southern and eastern Spain this weekend resulted in tragedy and ongoing search efforts, as flooding claimed at least one life in Málaga province. The Civil Guard recovered the body of a man on Monday after a van was swept away by a swollen river in Alhaurín el Grande. Rescue teams are still searching for a second individual who was in the vehicle, while a separate operation is underway in Granada to locate a missing motorcyclist.
The incidents occurred following a period of intense rainfall that impacted Andalusia, particularly Málaga and Granada, over the weekend. Authorities are urging caution in affected areas, and several provinces remain on alert for further precipitation and related hazards. The focus now shifts eastward as the storm system progresses.
Andalusia Flooding: Rescue Operations Continue
The initial storm surge hit Málaga province early Sunday, causing significant disruption and prompting numerous emergency calls. According to reports, the van containing two men was attempting to cross a river in Alhaurín el Grande when it was overwhelmed by the force of the water. The recovery of one body marks a somber turn in the events, but the search for the second individual continues with urgency.
Meanwhile, in Íllora, Granada, a motorcyclist was reported missing after being carried away while attempting to traverse a flooded stream. Emergency services launched a search and rescue operation, but as of Monday, the individual remains unaccounted for. The terrain in Granada is proving challenging for search teams.
Impact of the Storm System
The heavy rainfall is attributed to a combination of factors, including a low-pressure system interacting with warm, moist air. This meteorological setup led to exceptionally high precipitation levels in a short period, exceeding the capacity of rivers and streams in some locations. The resulting Spanish State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued warnings for several regions.
The storm has since moved eastward, bringing rain to the provinces of Granada and Almería. However, the threat isn’t limited to these areas. Parts of Albacete, Alicante, Teruel, and Castellón are currently under a yellow alert for rainfall, indicating a potential for localized flooding and disruption.
In contrast to the flooding concerns in the south and east, the mountainous region of Girona in Catalonia faces a different hazard: avalanches. Authorities have issued avalanche warnings, advising hikers and climbers to exercise extreme caution or avoid the area altogether. The combination of recent snowfall and warmer temperatures is increasing the risk of snowslides.
The scale of the rainfall has prompted comparisons to previous severe weather events in the region. Andalusia is particularly vulnerable to flash floods due to its mountainous terrain and often arid conditions, which can lead to rapid runoff when heavy rain occurs. This weekend’s events underscore the importance of preparedness and adherence to official warnings.
Local authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage caused by the storms, including infrastructure damage and agricultural losses. Initial reports suggest that several roads have been closed due to flooding and landslides, impacting transportation networks. The economic impact is still being evaluated.
Looking ahead, the AEMET forecasts continued unsettled weather across parts of Spain in the coming days. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed about the latest weather updates and follow the guidance of emergency services. Monitoring river levels and avoiding travel through flooded areas are crucial steps to ensure safety. The situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
Stay vigilant and check local news sources for the latest information on weather alerts and road closures in your area. Your safety is paramount during these challenging conditions.
