Floods have killed more than 200 people.
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orrential rainfall severely impacted southern and eastern Spain last Tuesday and Wednesday, potentially marking one of the deadliest events in the country’s recent history. Many people were caught off guard by the flash floods, resulting in 217 confirmed fatalities, with that number expected to rise as hundreds remain missing. Rescue and recovery operations are ongoing in Valencia, while Barcelona is also experiencing heavy rainfall this week. It is advisable to check local conditions and consider whether you should travel to the affected areas at this time.
On October 29, torrential rain began in eastern Spain, particularly affecting Valencia, where streets quickly transformed into rivers. The deluge swept away cars, homes, and bridges, leaving behind a trail of mud. Authorities and volunteers are actively working to clean up the neighborhoods, while police and rescue teams search for missing individuals and identify the deceased. Underground parking facilities and garages were inundated, and the military continues efforts to locate those who may be trapped. Over 200 people have died in Valencia, with several others still unaccounted for.
Videos showcasing piled-up cars and destroyed homes have circulated widely on social media. Many services remain disrupted, including railway lines, and residents are advised against drinking tap water. Locals have criticized authorities for failing to issue an alert sooner, as the warning came two hours after the disaster began. In response, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced a fund of €10.6 billion ($11.3 billion) to assist victims.
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This week, the storm moved to Barcelona, prompting alerts for residents to avoid travel. On Monday, Spain’s weather agency AEMET issued a red warning for Barcelona, advising against unnecessary travel. Parents were also urged not to pick up their children from school, as schools were deemed safe. Train services were suspended, and 100 flights were canceled or delayed due to flooding at the railway lines and airport.
While some areas were submerged earlier this week, the airport is now operating normally, although flights may still experience delays. Catalonia was not as severely impacted as Valencia, but travelers should exercise caution if they have upcoming trips.
Travel Warnings
This week, the Home Office in the U.K. issued a warning to travelers regarding the situation in Spain stating, “Severe weather and flooding are affecting many areas along the Mediterranean coastline, particularly in the Valencia region and Castilla La Mancha. Journeys may be impacted.” The advisory encouraged travelers to check weather warnings before embarking on their trips and to follow local guidance.
Similarly, the U.S. Embassy in Spain released a weather alert, indicating that the Spanish meteorological agency AEMET has issued red and orange alerts for ongoing rainfall and potential flooding in Valencia and southern Catalonia, including Barcelona. The embassy advised people to avoid affected areas and to stay updated with local weather reports, noting that “even where it is not raining, rain in other nearby areas can lead to hazardous conditions.”
Despite these alerts, the U.S. State Department has not updated its travel advisory for Spain, which remains at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, due to concerns about terrorism and civil unrest.
Travel to Spain is permitted without restrictions; however, be aware that your journeys may be affected by the recent flooding. Highways have been inundated, and the deluge has damaged railway lines, potentially prolonging travel times.
Additionally, many people have lost their homes and belongings, with numerous individuals currently lacking essential services. Volunteers are assisting with donations, and communities are in mourning. It is important to fully consider the situation before traveling to the affected regions.