Barcelona flooded after two months’ worth of rain in just three hours, Spain
Barcelona experienced severe flooding after over two months’ worth of rain fell over the region in less than three hours on Monday, November 4, 2024, leading to severe floods across the region and causing significant disruption in flights, railways, and other transport services.
Cars stuck In floodwaters on the C-32 highway near Barcelona, Spain. Image credit: ClaudiaSarten
Storms impacting eastern Spain since October 29 caused heavy downpours in Barcelona this week, resulting in severe flooding and the suspension of railway services. Flights and other transport services were also disrupted.
A hailstorm struck Barcelona on Monday, prompting a mobile alert to residents warning of extreme, continued rainfall on the city’s southern outskirts. Due to flooding concerns, authorities urged citizens to avoid gorges and canals.
Rainfall began over Barcelona in the early hours of Monday, delivering more than twice the average November rainfall in just a few hours. Nearly 150 mm (5.9 inches) of rain fell in the region within three hours, while Barcelona typically receives about 60 mm (2.3 inches) of rain throughout November.
The heavy rains led to severe flooding across Catalonia and Barcelona. Flooding has affected Spain since last week and has claimed at least 217 lives, with the majority of fatalities occurring in the Valencia region.
Spanish Transport Minister Óscar Puente suspended commuter rail service in northeast Catalonia. “Do not travel unless strictly necessary,” advised the ministry.
Several highways were closed due to severe flooding. A Red Alert was issued for heavy rainfall in Tarragona, southern Catalonia, prompting school cancellations across the city on Monday.
Cars could be seen half-submerged in floodwaters on the C-32 highway where several cars remained stuck amidst the floodwaters
Spain’s airport operator Aena canceled or delayed around 50 flights scheduled to depart from Barcelona’s El Prat airport. 17 flights bound for the airport on Monday morning were diverted to alternative airports, according to airport authorities.
The rain stopped late Monday morning, after which the airport resumed operations. Further rainfall is expected in the region in the coming days.
The floods come on the heels of a catastrophic event in Valencia, Spain, where torrential rains on October 29, led to unprecedented flooding. This disaster resulted in the deaths of at least 217 people, with 89 individuals still reported missing. The deluge caused substantial property damage, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters in Spanish history.
The Valencian Community, along with regions in Castilla–La Mancha and Andalusia, experienced over a year’s worth of precipitation in a single day due to an isolated low-pressure system known as Dana in Spain. This overwhelming influx of water led to widespread devastation, including the destruction of infrastructure, homes, and businesses.
In the aftermath, concerns have arisen about potential health risks from stagnant floodwaters, such as outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases and other infections. Hospitals in Valencia are preparing for a possible surge in patients due to these conditions.
The Spanish government has mobilized significant resources to assist in recovery efforts, deploying thousands of soldiers and police officers to the region. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced a substantial aid package to support victims and rebuild the devastated areas.
As of November 6, the situation remains critical, with ongoing efforts to restore normalcy and address the extensive damage caused by the floods.
References:
1 After Valencia, heavy rains hit Barcelona: What’s behind Spain’s worst flooding in decades? – Firstpost – November 5, 2024
2 Heavy rains in Barcelona disrupt rail service as troops search for more flood victims in Valencia – AP – November 5, 2024
I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
Commenting rules and guidelines
We value the thoughts and opinions of our readers and welcome healthy discussions on our website. In order to maintain a respectful and positive community, we ask that all commenters follow these rules.