Severe Weather Strikes Barcelona Amid Ongoing Recovery from Valencia Floods
As Spain grapples with the aftermath of devastating floods that claimed at least 217 lives, Barcelona is facing its own weather crisis. Torrential rain and strong winds have hit the Catalan capital, leading to significant disruptions in transportation and public safety alerts across the region. This comes just six days after the floods primarily affected the Valencia region, where the search for missing persons continues.
The Spanish meteorological agency, Aemet, had declared an end to the 'meteorological crisis' in Valencia, but attention quickly shifted to Barcelona, which was placed under a red alert due to the severe weather conditions. The rainfall accumulation reached 180 liters per square meter in just 12 hours, prompting Civil Protection to issue warnings urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from potentially dangerous areas, such as streams and ravines.
Transportation Disruptions and Public Safety Alerts
The storm has caused significant disruptions at El Prat Airport, with around fifty flights cancelled or delayed, and 17 flights diverted due to flooding in parts of the airport. The rain has also affected high-speed train services, with Renfe suspending operations throughout Catalonia, particularly between Barcelona and Tarragona due to flooding in a tunnel. The Generalitat has sent alerts to citizens in the affected areas, advising them to stay indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.
Schools across the region have suspended classes, and non-urgent medical activities have been cancelled at local hospitals. The University of Barcelona also halted classes as access to the campus became challenging. Local authorities are working to manage the flooding situation, which has seen reports of submerged vehicles and flooded streets, particularly in coastal towns like Castelldefels.
Community Response and Ongoing Recovery Efforts
In Valencia, where the floods caused widespread destruction, anger and frustration among residents have been palpable. Many have expressed their dissatisfaction with the government's response, especially during a visit by King Felipe VI and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez to the hardest-hit areas. Locals shouted insults and protested against the perceived inadequacy of the relief efforts, highlighting the emotional toll the disaster has taken on communities.
As rescue workers continue their search for missing persons in Valencia, the situation in Barcelona remains critical, with authorities on high alert for further weather developments. The Emergency Military Unit is deployed to assist in recovery efforts, focusing on evacuating water from flooded areas and ensuring public safety as the storm progresses.
