Worst storm in over a century hits Spain, major floods and tornadoes reported

A slow-moving storm system pummelled a massive area of Spain, spawning floods, hails, thunderstorms, and tornadoes on September 12, 2019. Torrential rains put Costa Blanca around Benidorm and Alicante under red weather alert and killed two in Valencia region. The storm was described as the worst in more than a century.

​Violent weather prompted Spain to brace for further widespread destruction as rains across the southern area were recorded the worst since 1917.

Footages of the river-like floodings went viral online, showing several vehicles being dragged by muddy waters. Fortunately, the cars had no passengers, officials said.

Another video emerged showing the horrifying flash floods triggered by the overflowing of Clariano RIver in Ontinyent municipality, Vall d'Albaida, Valencia province on September 12.

The river burst its banks, causing 40 people to be rescued and 150 others to be promptly evacuated from their residences. Port de Sagunt has also been temporarily closed.

Aside from the Clariano river, the Canyoles river was also swollen, flooding the Bosquet ravine in Moixent.

AEMET, the country's weather agency, said that 71.8 mm (21.8 inches) of rain fell in Pego in Alicante province, 64.2 mm (2.5 inches) in Fontanars dels Alforins, 54.7 mm (2.1 inches) in Ibiza airport, and 33.4 mm (1.3 inches) in Murcia by 07:00 LT, September 12.

Through the morning of September 11, Ontinyent in the province of Valencia recorded a staggering 277.6 mm (10.93 inches) of rain, making September 12 its wettest day since records began in 1917.

Two fatalities were reported in the region, who were suspected to be a married couple until officials confirmed that they were siblings aged 51 and 61. Further reports stated that the victims' car was swept away by floods.

Schools were canceled for over 338 000 students in Alicante and Valencia, while all classes in Murcia were suspended.

Aside from heavy rains, mudslides, and flash floods, authorities also issued risk of hails due to thunderstorms. According to reports, wind gusts may reach up to 72 km/h (45 mph) through September 12.

The severe weather conditions also summoned a tornado, as shown in a video posted by Severe Weather Europe. The twister is seen hitting Guardamar del Segura, Alicante on the morning of September 12. 

It damaged the municipal sports center and ripped up trees, traffic signs and roofs. Winds of 104 km/h (64 mph) were recorded.

Affected areas can see another 50 – 100 mm (2 – 4 inches) of rain and up to 150 mm (6 inches) through Friday, AccuWeather meteorologists said.

Meanwhile, downpours in Madrid is expected to bring rains of 25 to 50 mm (1 to 2 inches).

A sudden drop in temperatures along the east coast due to the cold polar air is reported to be the reason behind the unusual weather conditions.

Since late August, other areas such as Ibiza, Majorca, and Madrid have been pounded by extreme weather. Ibiza remains under orange alert as further storms are forecasted in the upcoming days.

Featured image: Major flood in Valencia, Spain on September 12, 2019. Credit: Batalleta