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13 Sep 2019 | 03:39 PM UTC

Spain: Severe weather leaves four dead across southeastern Spain as of September 13

Heavy rainfall and flash flooding leaves four dead across southeastern Spain as of September 13; additional flooding and associated disruptions expected

Warning

Event

On Friday, September 13, the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) issued an "extreme risk" weather warning for the regions of Valencia, Alicante, Murcia, Almería, and the Balearic Islands due to torrential rain and flash floods, which have caused road closures and severe disruptions to transport services. As of Friday evening (local time), a total of 74 roads have been closed across the affected areas, as was the Murcia regional railway service and Región de Murcia International Airport (RMU). Flights disruptions have also been reported at Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), Ibiza Airport (IBZ), Alicante Airport (ALC), and Almería Airport (LEI). Over 1,500 people have been evacuated across southeastern Spain since Thursday, September 12, and four people have been killed as a result of the inclement weather. Authorities have advised individuals to stay indoors.

Lingering transportation and business disruptions are possible in affected areas over the coming hours and days.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, anticipate power, telecommunication, and transportation disruptions, including adverse driving conditions and road closures, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities. Remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult.