Torremolinos, located on Spain's Costa del Sol, has declared school closures and activated its emergency response plan due to heavy rainfall and flooding affecting the region on February 3, 2025. The sudden and severe weather prompted local authorities to take swift action as rain poured relentlessly, causing chaos and disruptions for both residents and tourists alike.
Emergency services have reported being inundated with calls related to flooding, with mayor Margarita del Cid announcing, "We are currently attending to the numerous incidents registered in some parts of the municipality due to the heavy rains." The municipality has faced significant challenges as rising waters inundated homes, roads, and garages, leading to hazardous conditions throughout Torremolinos.
The Junta de Andalucía, the governing body of the Andalusian region, issued alerts, requiring residents to prepare for continued rainfall and consequent flash flooding. An orange weather alert has been placed for the region, indicating the potential for extreme and prolonged precipitation.
According to Spain's state meteorological agency (Aemet), Torremolinos has already received staggering amounts of rainfall. Reports indicated up to 70mm of water accumulation just within two hours of the storm. Forecasts warn of more rain, with anticipated totals possibly reaching 30 litres per square meter over short periods, which is typical of the severe weather patterns affecting coastal areas.
The weather is expected to be compounded by thunderstorms and small hail, creating dangerous driving conditions and leading to significant traffic delays throughout the area. Roads have been rendered impassable, with some underpasses underwater and vehicles stranded. Aemet raised concerns about localized heavy rain particularly affecting various regions including Malaga city and the Guadalhorce Valley.
With schools closed, parents were advised to keep their children home for safety reasons. Mayor del Cid reiterated, "Classes are recommended to be suspended today," emphasizing the need for caution and the avoidance of unnecessary travel during the precarious weather conditions. Many parents faced difficulties managing childcare as they adjusted to the sudden announcement of school closures.
The authorities stressed the importance of public safety and advised residents to remain indoors whenever possible. Those who must venture outside are encouraged to avoid flooded areas and to take precautions during the inclement weather. The emergency protocol put forth has mobilized local emergency services to respond to urgent calls for assistance as the situation continued to develop.
The proximity of the storm to the coastal areas has exacerbated flooding risks, as the heavy rains quickly runoff from elevated areas, overwhelming drainage systems. Local meteorologists anticipated the storm's intensity would provide little respite, as Aemet warned of continued precipitation and possible additional weather alerts.
Despite the challenges posed by the sudden deluge, the community has banded together, with emergency responders and local organizations stepping up to assist those most affected. Throughout Torremolinos, volunteers have offered support to flood-stricken families, distributing food and supplies to those cut off by the floodwaters.
Throughout the day, Aemet will continue to monitor the situation closely, issuing updates and warnings as necessary. The hope is for conditions to improve shortly, allowing affected services to resume normal operations.
Weather predictions suggest changes may occur later but for now, residents remain vigilant, keeping their homes and businesses secure against the continuing threat of flooding. The aftermath of the storm may require thorough assessments of damage and planning for recovery. Town authorities are already preparing strategies to address the results of the storm and provide support for recovery efforts.
Residents of Torremolinos have adapted to various weather patterns over the years, but these abrupt storms serve as stark reminders of the need for preparedness and community resilience. The hope is for brighter days to return soon to this vibrant coastal community.