Locations Affected: Spain
Parts of Spain were placed under high alert for rainfall and flooding following flash floods caused by the Dana weather system on 29 October, resulting in over 220 casualties and widespread destruction. The State Meteorological Agency of Spain (Aemet) has issued the highest alert for rainfall in Málaga and the Catalonia region from 13 November, expected to last until 15 November.
Dana Weather System and Impact of Climate Change
The Dana weather system occurs when cold and warm air masses meet, forming clouds that produce persistent rainfall for several days. Eastern and southern Spain are particularly susceptible to this phenomenon due to the country’s position between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Experts have also expressed concern about the impact of climate change on the increasing strength and frequency of destructive weather systems like Dana
Evacuations and Disruptions due to the Extreme Weather
- Forecasters expect up to 180 mm of rainfall in Catalonia within 12 hours and thunderstorms along the coast near Tarragona. Granada is expected to receive between 40-120 mm of rainfall. Rainfall is also forecasted for the flood-affected Valencia region.
- Schools have been closed in Málaga, Granada, Valencia, and some municipalities in Catalonia.
- Around 3,000 residents living near the Guadalhorce River have been asked to evacuate. The extreme rainfall and flooding in the Costa del Sol region have led to the evacuation of thousands. Evacuation orders have also been issued for houses along the banks of the Campanillas River in Málaga.
- On 13 November, high-speed rail services connecting Madrid to Málaga and Valencia were suspended. The local metro in Málaga was also closed, and Málaga Airport cancelled one flight and diverted five others.
- Workers have piled up sandbags in Aldaia to prevent the Saleta ravine from overflowing due to the rainfall.
- Clean-up operations are ongoing in Valencia, involving around 20,000 military personnel and police officers.
Impact of the Rainfall and Flooding
The current storm is expected to be weaker than the previous weather system that affected Spain in October. However, it is still likely to cause severe damage due to the large quantities of mud already present and the compromised state of the sewage system. Torrential rainfall and flooding may lead to widespread damage, particularly in areas previously impacted by extreme weather conditions in October. Landslides and mudslides are likely, potentially resulting in blocked roads and transport disruptions. Flight delays and cancellations are expected due to the adverse weather conditions, and passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for updates before traveling. Damage to utility infrastructure could disrupt power and communications services. Organizations are advised to stay informed and prepare necessary contingency plans. Weather updates can be found on Aemet’s official website: https://www.aemet.es/en/portada.
