Spain | Floods hit Barcelona, rains submerge city's airport, diverting flights

Arab Weather - The city of Barcelona was exposed to heavy rains and widespread flooding as a result of violent storms that hit eastern Spain last week, which caused great destruction in the city of Valencia. Local authorities warned residents of "extreme danger" and called on them to remain on high alert, after the city's airport was flooded and caused the diversion of several flights.

Weather warnings and alerts to citizens

The Spanish Meteorological Service has issued a red alert due to the heavy rains that continue to fall on the coast of Barcelona, urging residents to avoid all but essential travel. Residents have also received mobile phone alerts about the expected rains, with instructions to avoid dry valleys and canals that could turn into dangerous floodwaters.

Road closures and traffic impact

Flooding has closed several roads in Catalonia due to mudslides and rising water levels. Videos have emerged showing drivers trying to navigate their cars through flooded streets to reach their homes safely.

Time-lapse video shows the entry of the torrent
A residential area in Valencia, Spain, was flooded.
Valencia experienced a disaster that left a deep mark on its inhabitants. #Valencia
pic.twitter.com/AtROA4h4Ut

— World_Weather (@Arab_Storms) November 4, 2024

El Prat Airport Flooded, Flights Diverted

At Barcelona’s El Prat Airport, footage showed water pouring into car parks and terminal buildings, and leaking from ceilings in the departure lounge, forcing passengers to remove their shoes and walk through the water. A Spanish airliner was also seen slowly making its way through the water on the runway. The dire conditions prompted air traffic control to divert and cancel several flights.

#URGENTE : Images from Barcelona's El Prat Airport. Many flights are being diverted to other destinations. #DANA pic.twitter.com/MGUzMSCQOW

— Weather monitor (@Weathermonitors) November 4, 2024

Train services suspended, metro stations closed

Transport services have been severely affected, with many train services suspended and metro stations and major roads in the city closed, in an attempt to limit the movement of citizens and reduce risks, amid intensive efforts by authorities to avoid a repeat of previous disasters left by recent storms in the region.

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Sources:

Daily Mail