Barcelona is facing severe flooding as heavy rains hit parts of Spain again, putting regions on red alert. This new weather surge follows last week’s catastrophic rainfall in Valencia, where more than 217 lives were tragically lost. Rescuers in Valencia continue to search flooded underground car parks and tunnels where it’s feared some victims remain trapped.
Catalonia and Barcelona Flooded; Flights and Rail Disrupted
Parts of Catalonia, including Barcelona, are experiencing intense rains, leading to airport closures and transit delays. El Prat Airport in Barcelona, Spain’s second largest, saw over 80 flights delayed or canceled, while rail services were halted due to waterlogged tracks.
Valencia’s Deadly Flooding Crisis and Ongoing Rescue Operations
Following unprecedented rains in Valencia, which dropped a year’s worth of rain in a short span, search teams have been focusing on underground areas, where many were caught off guard in their cars and parking facilities. In Aldaia, outside Valencia, authorities fear additional victims may be in flooded sections of the Bonaire shopping mall’s car park. Drones have been deployed to survey these submerged areas, though police estimate it will take days to fully inspect the site.
Escalating Public Frustration Over Flood Response
In addition to coping with losses, residents are voicing anger over a perceived lack of preparation and warning. Demonstrations in Valencia saw locals throw mud and debris at visiting Spanish officials, including Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Spain’s royal family, who were met with frustration from those impacted. Spain’s Civil Guard has opened an investigation into these protests.
Army and Military Resources Mobilized
The Military Emergencies Unit (UME) deployed 500 troops to Valencia as the flood conditions worsened, with additional reinforcements bringing the total personnel on the ground to nearly 8,000. Spain’s armed forces have been mobilized to assist with food distribution to affected towns, where road closures and debris have restricted access to emergency supplies.
More Rain Expected as Emergency Preparations Continue
The Ministry for Ecology has issued red alerts across Catalonia, with torrential rains expected to bring up to 8cm more rainfall, particularly along the coast. The State Meteorological Agency warns that these extreme conditions are likely to cause localized flooding, placing emergency services on high alert as they brace for further downpours.
