A devastating storm system has struck Eastern Spain, placing the coastlines of Valencia and Castellón under maximum alert. The phenomenon caused widespread school closures and a total shutdown of Renfe train services, as emergency teams work tirelessly to prevent further flooding in several critical regions.

Extreme Weather Hits the Mediterranean Coast

Eastern Spain is currently facing a critical situation due to an episode of torrential rains, electrical storms, and hail. This weather system has severely challenged the infrastructure of the Valencian Community and Catalonia.

The AEMET (the State Meteorological Agency, which is the official government body for weather in Spain) has activated a Red Alert—the highest level of warning—for the coastlines of Valencia and Castellón, where rainfall volumes have reached extraordinary levels.

Immediate Impact

The intensity of the precipitation forced the suspension of all school classes in Valencia starting at 3:00 PM on Thursday, triggering a massive mobilization of security forces to ensure public safety.

Transport and Mobility Collapse

Connectivity across the region has been severely impacted. Renfe (Spain's national passenger railway company) made the drastic decision to suspend services starting at 6:00 PM on Thursday. This included:

  • Cercanías (Commuter trains) lines C1, C2, C3, and C6.
  • Long and Medium Distance trains originating from or destined for Valencia.
  • Key connections heading towards Catalonia.

These restrictions are expected to remain in place until safety inspections of the tracks are completed. Meanwhile, the DGT (General Directorate of Traffic) reported a staggering 60% reduction in vehicle flow in the Valencian Community, complicated by rockfalls on various highways.

Rainfall Data

Pluviosity measured in liters per square meter (l/m²), according to Avamet.

Location Rainfall
Eslida (Castellón) 129.8
Xodos (Castellón) 112.8
Yátova (Valencia) 91.2

Emergency Response & Coordination

Regional leaders Juan Carlos Valderrama (Valencia) and Núria Parlon (Catalonia) are coordinating response efforts to protect the population. Key actions include:

Valencia

Extreme surveillance of the Túria River and the Carraixet and Poyo ravines. Shelters have been opened in the Benimaclet and La Petxina pavilions for the homeless.

Tarragona

Mass alerts sent via the "Es-Alert" system (a cell-broadcast emergency system) to Baix Camp, Baix Ebre, Ribera d'Ebre, and Montsià.

Barcelona

The Municipal Emergency Action Plan was successfully deactivated on Thursday at 8:15 PM after the city's drainage capacity stabilized.

Source: AEMET