Heavy rain and floods disrupt transport across Spain
Severe rainfall in Spain has caused one death and widespread transport disruption, with authorities warning of further downpours and closing airports and metro stations.
Key Takeaways
AIA man was killed after his car was swept away by floodwaters near Barcelona, as torrential rain battered Spain’s eastern coast, triggering widespread flooding and major transport disruptions.
The Spanish meteorological agency said it had issued heavy rain warnings, temporarily raising the alert level to red in Barcelona. Authorities in Catalonia and Valencia urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel for their safety.
The downpours also forced the closure of metro stations, rerouted bus services, and disrupted train operations, while Barcelona’s El Prat Airport experienced delays and flight cancellations.
Transport brought to a standstill in Valencia and Barcelona
In Valencia, all metro lines were suspended and the airport was closed for several hours, with 12 flights diverted to other airports. Emergency services in Catalonia received more than 850 calls related to the heavy rainfall.
Rainfall totals exceeded 70 millimeters in just half an hour in some parts of Valencia, worsening the impact on infrastructure and transport networks.