In brief
A second wave of torrential rain hits Málaga and Catalonia, with impacts following weeks of devastating floods in Valencia.
In the Costa del Sol region of southern Spain, thousands of residents have been evacuated due to the exceptionally heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding that has wreaked havoc in the area. The national meteorological agency, Aemet, has issued its highest alert level for both Málaga and the northeastern region of Catalonia, anticipating strong rainfall that could persist until Friday. Notable tourist spots including Marbella, Velez, and Estepona are expected to bear the brunt of the intense weather system identified as a "Dana."Following recent catastrophic flash floods in eastern Valencia, which resulted in over 220 fatalities, several areas in Spain remain on high alert for additional downpours and cooler temperatures. Forecasters predict that Catalonia may receive as much as 180mm of rain within a mere 12 hours, coupled with thunderstorms near the coastline around Tarragona. Consequently, schools throughout Málaga province have been closed, and many shops remain shuttered as precautionary measures.Around 3,000 residents located near the Guadalhorce River were instructed by the Regional Government of Andalusia to evacuate. Antonio Sanz, the region's Minister of the Presidency, clarified that the evacuation pertains to specific riverbank areas rather than entire towns. This decision was coordinated with the Spanish government to facilitate support from state security forces.The severe weather warnings in Málaga have also impacted sporting events, leading to the postponement of the opening tie of the Billie Jean King Cup between Spain and Poland. Aemet has now placed the Andalusia region and the Balearic Islands on an orange alert through Thursday, indicating the possibility of very strong to torrential rain and storms. This orange alert signifies a notable meteorological event posing a level of danger to routine activities.Valencia, still recovering from the recent calamity, has suspended classes and sports events in certain localities, while sandbags have been strategically placed in Aldaia to protect against potential flooding. Despite this, meteorologists suggest that the new Dana weather system is not expected to rival the catastrophic conditions experienced earlier in October.Meanwhile, the search for the bodies of two young boys, Izan and Rubén Matías, who were tragically swept away during the Valencia floods two weeks prior, has concluded with their remains being discovered in different locations. Their family expressed deep gratitude for the search efforts, while a poignant message shared online reflected their loss.Dana weather systems form when a low-pressure area becomes detached from the jet stream, causing prolonged periods of rain, as colder air collides with warmer Mediterranean currents. The ongoing torrential rains underscore the urgency of addressing climate change, as emphasized by Celeste Saulo, Secretary General of the World Meteorological Organization, at the commencement of the COP29 climate summit. She pointed out that Spain's extreme rainfall serves as a dire reminder of how a warmer atmosphere can retain more moisture, leading to intense weather events.
