Spain: At least six fatalities due to storms across Spain December 21

Event

At least six people have been killed as of Saturday, December 21, due to successive storms across Spain. Storm Elsa struck the country on Wednesday, December 18, causing flooding and landslides, and damaging infrastructure countrywide. Three people were killed in northwestern Spain on Friday, December 20, due to flooding and resulting landslides and infrastructure damage. On Saturday, two people were found dead in Andalusia region and another person was killed in Madrid by a falling piece of masonry that was dislodged by the storm. Storm Fabien hit the Iberian peninsula on Saturday as the effects of Elsa began to subside. Spanish officials warn that Fabien could bring winds of up to 140 kph (85 mph) and waves as high as 9 m (29 ft) along Spain's Atlantic coast.

Transportation and business disruptions are expected in affected areas over the coming hours and days. 

Advice

Individuals in Spain are advised to monitor local weather reports, confirm flight reservations, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, anticipate adverse weather and power and transportation disruptions, and remember that running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) is enough to knock over an adult - and never drive through flooded streets; floodwater may also contain wastewater and chemical products.