Severe weather has been wreaking havoc in southern Spain, as officials warn citizens and travelers to prepare for continued torrential rain and potential flooding through Thursday, March 20, 2025. The Dutch embassy in Madrid alerted its citizens about the possibility of severe conditions, underscoring the perilous state of the weather across the region.
According to reports, the Spanish weather service anticipates heavy rainfall lasting until the end of the week, which may be accompanied by gusty winds and thunderstorms along the Spanish coast. This storm, known as Storm Laurence, has already saturated much of Spain with unprecedented amounts of rain since the beginning of the month.
As of March 17, data reveals that regions have received 97 millimeters of rain—far exceeding the average monthly rainfall of 59 millimeters—leading to extensive flooding and dangerous conditions. Areas particularly affected include Andalucía, Murcia, and even reaching the Canary Islands, which also reported adverse weather. Various regions, from Galicia in the northwest to Andalucía in the south, are grappling with the impacts of this devastating weather pattern.
As the rain continues to fall, more than 400 households have been evacuated in the provinces of Málaga and Córdoba due to rising water levels that have caused local rivers to overflow. Roads have become impassable, and railway services are suspended in several areas because of the severe weather conditions.
To compound the tragic situation, authorities have reported fatalities attributed to the extreme weather. A couple was found dead in the province of Seville after their vehicle capsized and was swept away by rising waters. The Guardia Civil located the man’s body on March 19, the day after they found his wife's body 400 meters from the vehicle, highlighting the tragic consequences of this ongoing crisis.
Meanwhile, storm warnings remain in effect, indicating that conditions may worsen with the arrival of another storm named Martinho, which is expected to approach from the Atlantic Ocean. This would mark the fourth storm to strike the region in under two weeks, compounding the challenges faced by local authorities and residents.
In a related incident, the body of a 70-year-old cyclist was discovered on March 18 in a village north of Córdoba. Local authorities are investigating whether his passing is connected to the ongoing storm conditions. However, as reports continue to unfold, the challenges posed by the severe weather are proving to be significant, affecting both local communities and those traveling to Spain.
For travelers planning to visit southern Spain during this spring vacation season, the typical sun-soaked getaway may be disrupted. Gusts of wind and stormy weather could lead to delays and cancellations, but for now, flights are reportedly still departing on schedule. However, caution is advised, and those planning to travel are encouraged to check road conditions and consider delaying their trips until the situation stabilizes.
The Spanish embassy is urging everyone to monitor local weather updates from the Spanish weather service (AEMET) closely and obey local authorities’ instructions regarding safety measures. Currently, there remains no formal travel advisory against visiting Spain; however, travelers should remain vigilant and prepared for potential changes in their travel plans.
As the situation develops, the urgency for safety and preparedness persists across the affected regions in southern Spain. With stormy conditions likely to continue, authorities remain on high alert, emphasizing the need for caution as Storm Laurence makes its final moves through the country.
The warning is clear: in light of the recent events and the ongoing nature of adverse weather, everyone should prioritize safety as their top concern during this tumultuous time in southern Spain.
