Flash Floods in Eastern and Southern Spain Cause Chaos and Casualties Amid Continued Rainfall Warnings

Eastern and southern Spain are facing severe flash floods that have left at least 51 people dead and several others missing, according to Spanish authorities. The extreme weather has disrupted train services, caused bridge collapses, and placed the country on high alert as rainfall continues.

Flash floods in Spain lead to casualties, infrastructure damage, and travel disruptions as authorities warn of continued adverse weather. Photo: Euronews

Severe Impact on Transport and Infrastructure

On Tuesday, flooding swept vehicles through village streets and halted rail services across large areas in the region. A high-speed train carrying nearly 300 passengers derailed near Malaga due to rising floodwaters. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the event highlighted the escalating severity of the weather. Additionally, high-speed rail lines between Valencia and Madrid, along with other commuter routes in affected areas, were suspended.

The State Meteorological Agency issued a red alert for heavy rainfall in the Valencian Community, where floodwaters caused a bridge in Picanya to collapse. Towns such as Turís and Utiel reported rainfall levels reaching around 200 liters per square meter, while numerous other areas in the south and east experienced more than 100 liters of rain within the day.

Related: Crete Declares State of Emergency Due to Severe Water Shortage at Faneromeni Dam

Authorities Issue Warnings as Rainfall Persists

Officials have cautioned that the worst may not yet be over. The State Meteorological Agency warned residents that while Tuesday marked the most severe weather of the week, intense rain showers are expected to continue. Through the platform X (formerly Twitter), the agency advised residents to stay alert to official updates and practice caution.

Spain has recently experienced frequent and severe autumn storms, exacerbated by climate change. Following an intense drought period, Spain is receiving critical rainfall; however, the frequency and severity of these storms underscore a broader issue. Most climate scientists agree that climate change is driving an increase in extreme weather patterns, including storms, droughts, and floods.

The flash floods in Spain serve as a stark reminder of the increasing threat posed by climate-related weather extremes. With multiple communities on high alert and infrastructure severely impacted, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as adverse weather conditions persist. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and take all necessary precautions to stay safe.

Source: Euronews