DANA Causes Severe Flooding in Southeast Spain
As predicted, a DANA (isolated high-level depression) has brought heavy storms and intense rainfall to the Iberian Peninsula, causing widespread flooding. The orange and yellow weather warnings were activated on Monday afternoon and have remained in place throughout Tuesday and Wednesday.
The regions most affected by the DANA in Spain are Almería, the Region of Murcia, and the south of the Valencian Community. These areas have experienced torrential rains and storms, leading to significant flooding and damage.
The convection forecast for the southeast of the peninsula suggests the formation of Mesoscalar Convective Systems (SCM), which are organized groups of storms known for producing abundant rainfall.
Monday was particularly challenging in the southeast, with intense rains and storms causing floods in parts of Almería, Murcia, Alicante, and Granada. Almería recorded the highest rainfall, with 145.5 mm in Arboleas and 114.6 mm in Huércal-Overa.
The situation remains critical, with ongoing heavy rains and active orange warnings for the southeast. The worst-hit province, Almería, saw over 100 mm of rainfall in some areas. Levante and Los Vélez regions within Almería have been severely affected by the torrential downpours.
Despite the increased river flow in the area, the Segura Hydrographic Confederation has reported no significant damage. However, caution is still advised in the coming hours.
In Murcia, Caravaca de la Cruz registered approximately 43.8 mm of rainfall on Monday. The region is expected to face further difficulties as the DANA moves east through the Alboran Sea. The Cartagena/Salinas Cabo de Palos station has already exceeded 100 mm of rainfall on Tuesday. Murcia currently has 17 warnings in place for heavy rains and potential flooding.
Alicante province is also experiencing rising instability. Pego recorded 17 mm of rainfall on Monday, while Alicante-Elche Airport has already collected 61.8 mm on Tuesday. Ontinyent in Valencia has accumulated 127.4 mm in the last few hours. Both provinces have active orange warnings for heavy rains and storms.
The DANA’s impact on the southeast of Spain has caused significant disruption and damage. Authorities are urging residents to remain cautious and stay updated on the latest weather warnings and advisories.
What immediate actions are local authorities taking to assist residents affected by the heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flash flooding?
Xperienced heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flash flooding. Local authorities have declared a state of emergency in some municipalities, and several schools and roadways have been temporarily closed.
The heavy rainfall has caused rivers to overflow and dams to reach their maximum capacity, leading to further flooding in surrounding areas. Many homes and businesses have been severely damaged or destroyed, and residents have been evacuated from their homes for safety.
Emergency response teams, including firefighters, police, and the military, have been deployed to affected areas to assist with rescue and relief efforts. Helicopters have been used to airlift stranded residents to safer locations, and boats have been utilized to navigate flooded streets.
Power outages have also been reported in some areas, affecting thousands of households. Utility companies are working tirelessly to restore electricity, but the process may take some time due to the extent of the damage.
Local authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions such as avoiding unnecessary travel, staying away from flooded areas, and following evacuation orders. They are also coordinating efforts to provide temporary shelter and assistance to those affected by the severe flooding.
The DANA is expected to gradually weaken and move away from Spain over the next few days. However, the aftermath of the flooding will leave a significant impact on the affected regions, requiring extensive cleanup and recovery efforts in the days, weeks, and possibly months to come.
Climate change continues to wreak havoc, as intense flooding and heavy rains strike Almería, Murcia, and Alicante in Spain. Urgent action is needed to mitigate the devastating impact of these extreme weather events. Stay safe, everyone!
This article highlights the alarming consequences of climate change with intense flooding and heavy rains in Almería, Murcia, and Alicante in Spain. Urgent action is required to tackle and mitigate the effects of such extreme weather events on these regions.