Mijas Hippodrome Racecourse will take in animals that are vulnerable during the worst weather conditions

Residents of Mijas are encouraged to use extreme caution, as Storm Francis continues bringing torrential rainfall to the Costa del Sol. This is causing flooding along local rivers and stream. Mijas Town Hall activated former Hipódromo Costa del Sol (Costa del Sol Racecourse), a temporary shelter to protect animals from extreme weather.

Reuse of abandoned facilities

The facility was repurposed during previous storms and opened at 4pm. Municipal staff were on site to coordinate reception and care for vulnerable animals. This measure is intended for horses, mules, and donkeys. Many of these animals are kept in areas that are prone to flooding such as Rio Seco. The shelter is available to all animals, even pets such as dogs, in danger. The shelter is a part of the emergency plan activated by the municipality in response to a red alert issued from the Spanish Meteorological Agency for the Costa del Sol region and the Guadalhorce valley.

Mijas is home to an estimated 3,000 horses

Mijas is a town with a long-standing equestrian heritage. According to preliminary data collected over a decade earlier, there are approximately 3,000 horses in the municipality. This includes a large number of horses that are used for tourism, riding school, and private stables. The racecourse is a safe haven for animals because of its spacious grounds and large stables. This prevents potential losses due to floods.

Animals are often kept near rising rivers

Fuengirola River has been the focus of most concern due to a sudden rise in water level, making many crossing points and fords impossible. Areas such as Entrerríos, Atalaya, and secondary streams linked to the river are at high risk, where water levels can surge rapidly and unpredictably. Authorities have warned against crossing these zones, as it poses serious dangers for people and vehicles.

Mijas firemen had responded to 10 rain-related incidents by mid-morning, including falling trees blocking Las Lagunas and La Cala roads, structural risk from loose elements and partial roof collapse of one home. So far, no injuries have been reported.

In other areas, rivers such as the Guadalhorce are overflowing. Andalusia’s regional government maintains Level 1 emergency status in its Flood Risk Plan. Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from flooded areas, riverbanks and road closures.

In case of emergencies, the 112 Andalucía hotline is available 24/7. Local officials urge caution to protect property, animals, and lives in the vulnerable coastal community as Storm Francis continues.