The Comunidad Valenciana is currently facing severe weather conditions as heavy rains impact the region, causing significant disruptions. Rainfall predictions indicate totals could reach up to 100 liters per square meter within 12 hours, raising warnings of hydrological issues including flooding and swollen streams.
According to the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (Aemet), the torrential rains are expected to persist until March 6, with forecasters advising caution. This warning follows the severe flooding events previously experienced on October 29, which still linger in the public memory.
Local authorities have started to take preventive measures, as reported by several municipalities including Algemesí, which initiated protective measures late on Sunday. Early Monday, towns such as Domeño, Segorbe, and Tírig eliminated school sessions due to the serious risks associated with the flooding. València's municipal government followed suit, announcing school closures for its southern districts on March 4.
Intensely affected areas include the province of Castellón, where emergency services reported up to 124 liters per square meter recorded at Torralba del Pinar. Other highlighted areas include Villamalur and Atzeneta del Maestrat, which saw totals of 85.6 and 83.4 liters per square meter, respectively. Further south, Carcaixent reported 57.6 liters, and the Vall d'Ebo received 200 liters within just 12 hours.
Road closures due to flooding have occurred on several regional roads, complicate travel. Early notices indicated control over road alterations such as those on the CV-376 and CV-377, with authorities advising against unnecessary travel toward risky areas. The local police confirmed no immediate threat from the Poyo stream following checks.
José Ángel Núñez, the Aemet's chief of climatology, emphasized the need for vigilance even as he reassured the public, stating, "This episode cannot be compared to the one experienced on October 29." He urged officials to adopt safety measures to warn residents about potential dangers with such heavy rainfall expected.
Across social media platforms, local governments have been sending alerts to encourage residents to stay cautious near riverbanks and to adhere to safety warnings about avoiding flooded zones.
Newly established parking areas for vehicles have emerged as preventative measures against flooding. For example, Algemesí has created designated spots to keep vehicles safe from potential inundation.
While the impact of the rains is potentially disruptive, active monitoring and preventive measures by local authorities are aimed at mitigating the risks. Various emergency teams have been deployed for rapid response, monitoring and preparation initiatives are being launched, and existing infrastructure is being carefully assessed for potential weaknesses under the stress of heavy rainfall.
Authorities remain on high alert as they navigate through the challenges posed by this weather system. They are tasked with ensuring safety across the region, with continuous updates being provided to residents and stakeholders engaged with local emergency response efforts.
The rains serve as another chapter for the region, which has faced intense weather patterns, showcasing the need for preparedness and responsive measures to protect lives and property during such extreme weather events.