Severe storms and flooding have hit Málaga, Spain, culminating on February 28, 2025, as intense rainfall led to significant weather warnings and emergency responses across the region. The storms arrived with such force, especially affecting localities along the Costa del Sol, where record rainfall exceeded 80 mm within short spans, raising serious concerns about flooding and public safety.
The Spanish meteorological service activated orange alerts throughout Málaga province, anticipating relentless downpours and potential hazards due to fast-flooding conditions. The Secretary of the Presidency of the Junta de Andalucía, Antonio Sanz, took immediate action by triggering the Special Emergency Plan to combat the high risk of flooding caused by these unprecedented weather circumstances early on the morning of February 28.
Local municipalities quickly mobilized their emergency services, including Local Police, Civil Protection, and Fire Departments, to manage the onslaught of rain and potential flooding. Different sections of the roads, particularly between Marbella and Manilva, reported severe disruptions due to the heavy rain. "We encourage the public to exercise utmost caution," warned Marbella Mayor Ángeles Muñoz through social media, as the alert status remained high.
Reports from various local weather services indicated alarming statistics, with Manilva and Estepona experiencing extraordinary rain totals of 40 liters per hour and 67.1 liters over twelve hours respectively. Notably, areas like Los Reales, situated within the Sierra Bermeja mountains, recorded cumulative rainfall at 61.7 liters, which fed fears of overflowing rivers and streams leading to broader flooding.
By midday, weather radar had confirmed persistent storm activity extending from Cádiz to Málaga, intensifying the situation. Several residences and roads faced inundation, and public events planned to celebrate Día de Andalucía were either canceled or relocated due to the deteriorated weather conditions.
The torrential rains have not only caused water accumulation but also raised fears of localized flash floods and potential tornadoes forming along the coastline. Meteorologists predict heavy precipitation will continue, with warnings issued for potential storm activity extending well through the weekend. Upcoming forecasts suggest the possibility of additional thunderstorms as we move forward through the first week of March.
Local authorities continually stress the need for vigilance among residents, particularly those living near waterways or regions susceptible to flooding. They have been advised to keep abreast of emergency protocols and updates from authorities to minimize risks.
With rain forecasted to persist, experts warn of the cumulative effects of what is coming to be known as the worst weather event experienced this year, emphasizing the disruption it has caused not only to daily life but also the potential threats posed by extreme climate events.
Málaga residents are currently grappling with the challenges posed by this severe weather, as the city braces for another day of substantial rainfall on March 1, with forecasts indicating probabilities of up to 90%. Meteorologists are keeping watch over demeanors of the storm tracking from the sea of Alborán, as heavy clouds loom threateningly over Málaga’s skyline.