Record levels of rainfall drenched the Madrid region of Spain over the weekend, causing flooding, delays, and tragic deaths. After months of heat and drought, the region was hit with torrential rains and flash flooding. Spain’s national weather agency, AEMET, issued a maximum red alert, warning of extreme danger in Madrid, Toledo, and Cadiz. The agency later lowered the alert level to yellow, although the potential for more rainfall remained.
Madrid’s Mayor Jose Luis Martinez-Almeida urged citizens to stay indoors as the capital braced for the heavy rainfall and storms. Flash floods stranded motorists and carried away cars, while some rail services were suspended. Almeida revealed that the record for rainfall in Madrid, set in 1972 at 87 liters per square meter, was likely to be broken, with forecasts predicting up to 120 liters per square meter.
The “DANA” meteorological phenomenon, an isolated high-level depression, took hold on Sunday afternoon and continued into the night. Madrid’s emergency services sent text messages advising residents to stay at home and avoid driving. Rail service between Madrid and Valencia, along with other lines, was suspended.
Tragically, at least two people have lost their lives, and one person remains missing as a result of the extreme weather. The heavy rainfall also prompted LaLiga to postpone Atletico Madrid’s home game against Sevilla at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium.
The Madrid region of Spain, which has suffered from heat and droughts in recent months, experienced record-breaking rainfall that led to devastating flash flooding and loss of life. As the region continues to recover from this natural disaster, authorities and emergency services are working to ensure the safety of residents and provide support to those affected.