Aemet has issued a red warning for Huelva, as torrential rainfall threatens to cause severe flooding along the Andalusian coastline.
Credit X – Aemet
The Spanish weather agency has released a red alert – the highest possible warning – for the coastal areas of Huelva, where torrential rain is causing serious flooding and disruption.
Authorities in Andalusia raised the flood risk for their region to its highest level. They urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay at home.
On Tuesday night, emergency alerts were sent to all mobile phones in the province. They warned of “extreme” danger and advised residents to be cautious.
After Aemet (the Spanish national meteorological agency) placed the area on red alert, the Andalusian Government confirmed that Operation Level 1 was activated of the Flood Risk Plan.
Andalusian Minister in charge of Presidency and Emergencies Antonio SanzX (formerly Twitter), posted that Ayamonte could see heavy rains, and that the situation might worsen over the next few hours. ‘Please avoid travel and follow official advice from 112 Andalucía,’ he urged.
Over 80 incidents reported over night
By Wednesday morning. 112 AndalucíaAround 80 weather-related incidents had been dealt with by the regional emergency service. Most of these were in Seville. Overnight, many streets, underpasses basements and homes in low-lying areas have been flooded.
According to emergency officials, Seville registered 69 incidents, followed by Cádiz and Huelva with five each, and one in Córdoba. Majority of incidents were caused by rain and wind, resulting in blocked roads, broken branches and damaged street furnishings.
The most serious event so far occurred in La Puebla de Guzmán (Huelva), where a wall collapsed along the HU-5401 road towards Paymogo. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries.
Other affected towns include Almonaster la Real and Los Marines in Huelva, while in Cádiz, Jerez de la Frontera, Rota, and Sanlúcar de Barrameda have also reported problems.
Authorities urge caution in the rainy season
Authorities are warning residents that the rain will continue through Wednesday. They urge them to stay inside, avoid rivers, ravines, low-lying places, and drive only if absolutely necessary.
Antonio Sanz warned, “We are dealing with extreme weather conditions.” The safety of everyone is our top priority. “Please act responsibly, restrict movement and stay informed through official channels.”
Local councils are inspecting rural roads, bridges and storm drains in order to prevent any further flooding. The regional emergency service is on high alert all day.
The red alert is still in effect, but residents of Huelva are in for a day of uncertainty and disruption as flooded streets, trees and heavy rain continue to batter parts of this region.
Costa News Spain Breaking News | English News in Spain.