Heavy rainfall is currently causing massive problems on the roads in Spain. One fatality is known so far.
At least one person died in Spain during storms with heavy rain, hail and gusts of wind. A 17-year-old was killed by a falling branch in the city of Zaragoza, the state TV broadcaster RTVE reported on Saturday evening. At Valencia Airport on the Mediterranean coast, a runway had to be temporarily closed after lightning struck.
In 24 hours, 149 liters of rain per square meter fell there. In the town of Xert inland from Castellón, even 300 liters per square meter were measured. Experts warn that climate change is making droughts like those in Spain last summer and violent storms with extreme amounts of rain more likely.
Numerous flooded streets could be seen on television, underground car parks and cellars were under water. The fire brigade had to rescue many people from their vehicles who had been trapped by the flood. A school bus also got stuck in the water in Les Alquerías. Helpers carried the children piggyback to higher ground, as can be seen on a video from the fire brigade. More rain is expected in the coming hours.