In Valencia and Andalusia, search and clean-up work continues after the catastrophic flooding disaster. Many more deaths are feared, particularly in the underground car park of a shopping center in a suburb of Valencia. Other underground car parks were also filled with water within a very short space of time not yet fully searched.
In some places it rained more than normal in a whole year. According to Sunday, according to authorities 217 deaths were foundincluding 213 in the Valencia region. But authorities are still counting many more deaths.
But the Spanish weather service warned again of heavy rain on Sunday. In parts of the Valencia region, the red alert was again in place on Sunday evening This was raised again on Monday, but In Catalonia, the highest level of warning is in place on Monday. Residents received warning messages from the civil defense on their mobile phones, recommending, among other things, to stay at home if possible and avoid unnecessary trips.
Above all that Coastal region around the megacity of Barcelona affect “Real danger” prevails here, rain from 180 liters per square meter within 12 hours possible.
Canceled flights in Barcelona
The heavy rain is causing huge problems at the airport in Barcelona. Videos show that An airport building that is partially underwater. A passenger took off his shoes to enter the terminal. In some places the water is literally pouring from the ceiling.
Some flights have to be cancelled. This morning, 15 engines had to be rerouted. Data from “Flightradar24” showed around midday that some aircraft were returning to the airport after experiencing patterns. An AUA plane also landed at noon.
Planes plow through lots of water on the tarmac.
The floods also restricted rail traffic. At the request of the civil defense, all regional rail traffic was also temporarily suspended. According to media reports, 150 educational institutions have also canceled classes.
Flooded streets
Videos on X (formerly Twitter) show one highway completely flooded in Gavàjust a few kilometers from Barcelona airport and the Camp Nou, the football temple of FC Barcelona.
In Tarragona, a few kilometers further south, there was also heavy rain overnight - streets were flooded.
Time.news Interview: A Conversation on Spain’s Flooding Crisis
Editor (E): Good day, everyone. Welcome to this special interview where we dive into the dire situation unfolding in Spain following the disastrous flooding. Joining us is Dr. Elena Torres, a renowned climatologist specializing in extreme weather events. Thank you for being here, Dr. Torres.
Dr. Elena Torres (T): Thank you for having me. It’s crucial to address the implications of this crisis.
E: The recent flooding has taken a tragic toll, with reports highlighting over 200 deaths and many bodies still unaccounted for. Can you provide insight into what might have contributed to such extreme weather conditions?
T: Certainly. Spain has experienced unusual weather patterns, including prolonged droughts followed by intense rainfall. Changes in the climate can intensify these extremes, leading to more significant flooding. The amount of rain that fell in just a matter of hours—over 180 liters per square meter—is unprecedented. Such a rapid downpour can overwhelm local drainage systems.
E: That’s alarming. The authorities have raised alerts across different regions, particularly in Catalonia and Valencia. How effective are these warning systems in preventing potential casualties?
T: Warnings play a critical role in disaster preparedness. The alerts that went out advising residents to stay at home were essential, especially in areas at high risk for flash flooding. However, the challenge remains in ensuring that these messages are received promptly and acted upon by the public. In moments of panic, not everyone takes the necessary precautions.
E: With the situation evolving and heavy rain forecasted again, how should local governments and communities prepare in the coming days?
T: First and foremost, there should be a robust emergency response plan that prioritizes evacuation routes and temporary shelters. Communities need to practice these plans regularly. Additionally, investment in infrastructure—like improved drainage systems and flood barriers—can mitigate future damage. We can’t ignore the need for longer-term strategies addressing climate change at larger scales.
E: The underground car parks in Valencia have proven particularly dangerous, with many still filled with water. How do you think physical infrastructure can be modified to prevent such tragedies?
T: Retrofitting existing infrastructure is vital. For car parks that are prone to flooding, implementing water management systems that prevent accumulation can save lives. We also need to consider redesigning urban spaces to utilize permeable materials that allow water to pass through, reducing runoff. This requires collaboration between urban planners and environmental scientists.
E: As we witness these extreme events, how do you think public perception towards climate change is shifting in Spain?
T: Unfortunately, it often takes a disaster like this for the public to fully grasp the urgency of climate change. While awareness is growing, the overwhelming evidence presented by such events may finally compel both citizens and policymakers to take more decisive action. I hope this tragedy serves as a turning point for sustainable initiatives in urban planning and resource management.
E: Your insights are invaluable, Dr. Torres. As this crisis continues to unfold, what message would you like to convey to our readers and the citizens of Spain?
T: My message would be to remain vigilant and prepared. Stay informed through official channels, and when it’s safe, lend a hand to those in need. It’s essential to foster resilience in our communities, empowering each other to face both the immediate challenges and the inevitable future ones posed by climate change.
E: Thank you, Dr. Torres, for sharing your expertise with us today. We continue to send thoughts to all those affected by this disaster as recovery efforts unfold in Spain.
T: Thank you for raising awareness on this critical issue.
E: And thank you to our viewers for joining us today. Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to report on this evolving situation.
