On March 3rd, 2025, Málaga braces for significant rainfall as the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (AEMET) has issued emergency alerts across the region, particularly targeting the Costa del Sol and the Valle del Guadalhorce. This alert aims to prepare residents for heavy downpours expected throughout the day, with various regions set to receive substantial rain.
The AEMET has activated the orange alert from midnight until 2:00 PM today. Forecasts indicate the possibility of up to 80 liters of rain per square meter over 12 hours, with intense storms challenging those plans. Specific predictions note the potential for 25 liters of rainfall within just one hour, raising serious concerns about flash flooding and road safety.
According to AEMET, "Aemet has activated the orange alert for the comarcas of Sol-Málaga and Guadalhorce since midnight." These areas are particularly vulnerable, with local meteorologists warning of severe weather patterns compounded by existing geographical features susceptible to flooding.
The chance for thunderstorms is heightened, emphasizing the importance of taking precautionary measures, as storms can arrive swiftly and present immediate dangers. The rainy weather is expected not only to hit Málaga but also to impact neighboring provinces such as Cádiz and Almería, which will also experience severe weather warnings due to expected heavy rains.
Antonio Sanz, the counselor of the Presidency for the Andalusian government, stated, "This is part of the special emergency plan due to flood risks activated on Sunday night." Emergency services have mobilized resources and are monitoring the situation closely as they prepare for possible immediate responses to flooding incidents. Authorities are advising residents to stay alert, particularly during peak rainfall periods, and to avoid traveling during storms if possible.
Rain has already begun saturing the region, with various towns recording impressive rainfall totals this past weekend, particularly Casarabonela, which saw about 51.9 liters per square meter over 24 hours. This wet spell has been welcomed after weeks of dry conditions but now has residents on edge as the potential for flooding becomes increasingly serious.
Besides rain, another concern relates to winds, with gusty conditions reported from the east, reaching speeds between 50 to 60 kilometers per hour, and waves of up to three meters affecting coastal areas. AEMET has placed the entire Málaga coastline under yellow alert for these wind conditions.
Looking beyond today, the weather forecast shows persistent rain patterns continuing through the week, albeit with varying intensity. AEMET predicts less severe conditions by mid-week but anticipates another wave of significant rainfall for Thursday through Sunday. Residents may find themselves caught up in this unsettled weather as it continues to evolve, leading to updated forecasts as conditions change.
During this time, the public is urged to heed advice and alerts from local authorities to mitigate risks associated with flooding and storms. The engagement and coordination between meteorological services and local emergency responders are fundamental as they navigate this period of severe weather.
The increasing amounts of precipitation have seen the region's reservoirs gradually refilling, which is, at least, one silver lining to the downpour. According to reports from the regional water management body, Hidrosur, many reservoirs are showing recovery, with the Concepción reservoir reaching over 71.5% of its total capacity as of earlier reports on Sunday. This suggests the rainfall is contributing positively to alleviating drought conditions but brings with it the risk of flooding.
Throughout this rainy season, it’s expected more updates will be relayed to the public, and weather conditions are highly subject to change. Residents are encouraged to stay informed via local news updates and official channels, especially as the situation with rainfall and flooding develops. Proper preparedness and caution are key to ensuring safety during these turbulent weather times.
The intense precipitation and emergency alerts paint a picture of urgency, making it clear the people of Málaga must be proactive to safeguard their homes and individual safety during such volatile weather. A mix of awareness, readiness, and respect for nature's unpredictability will go a long way as communities navigate these storms together.