Spain Braces for Another Severe Weather System, Weeks After Devastating Floods
Two weeks after catastrophic flash floods ravaged eastern Spain, the country is preparing for another potentially dangerous weather system. Spain’s meteorological agency Aemet has issued an orange alert for eastern and southern Mediterranean regions, including Valencia, Catalonia, Andalusia, and the Balearic Islands, warning of torrential rain and low temperatures from now until Thursday.
The impending weather front, known as a Dana system, is expected to bring significant rainfall and storms. While not anticipated to be as severe as the October 29th event that caused unprecedented damage, authorities are taking precautionary measures. A military vehicle has been touring towns, using a megaphone to warn residents of the upcoming storms. Some areas have already suspended school classes and sports activities, with towns like Aldaia preparing by placing sandbags in strategic locations.
The previous Dana weather system in October was particularly devastating, resulting in 222 confirmed deaths and 23 people still missing. Dana systems occur when a low-pressure area becomes isolated from the main jet stream, causing it to stall over a region and produce persistent rainfall. The meteorological phenomenon is characterized by colder high-altitude air meeting warmer Mediterranean air, intensifying storm conditions.
Early indications of the incoming weather system are already apparent. Parts of Almería province in Andalusia experienced flooding on Monday night, temporarily closing a section of the A7 motorway. Emergency services rescued three people whose vehicles were swept away by flood waters in the town of Vícar.
Aemet has advised residents in orange alert areas to exercise extreme caution, particularly near ravines and waterways. The national traffic office recommends checking road conditions before traveling. While Dana systems are not uncommon in Spain, occurring 10-20 times annually in the western Mediterranean, this second system in weeks remains a significant concern.
The most affected areas, particularly around Malaga and Granada, could experience approximately 180mm of rainfall – equivalent to two months’ worth of precipitation in just days. Additional hazards include large hail, squally winds, and the season’s first significant snowfall expected in mountain ranges like the Cantabrian, Sierra Morena, Central, and Betic chains.
Although this Dana system is not expected to match the October event’s intensity, authorities remain vigilant. The combination of heavy rainfall, potential flooding, and accompanying weather conditions continues to pose substantial risks to communities in affected regions.
Residents are urged to stay informed, follow local emergency guidance, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this potentially dangerous weather event.
