By Adam Woodward

Copyright euroweeklynews

A powerful extratropical storm has unleashed torrential rains across eastern Spain, which has led to widespread flooding, power outages, and transportation disruptions in Zaragoza, Valencia, Tarragona, and Castellón.

With a red alert issued for extreme rainfall sent out via telephone messages, the storm has caused significant damage, including the overflow of the Huerva River in Zaragoza and the La Saleta ravine in Aldaia, Valencia. Authorities have reported multiple road closures, suspended school classes, and modified public transit schedules as the region grapples with the biggest rainstorms since the devastating DANA floods of 2024.

Torrential rains and floods – car drivers rescued

In Zaragoza, the storm led to the closure of the Barranco de la Muerte and caused massive damage in nearby towns like Cuarte, Cadrete, and María de Huerva. Emergency services handled nearly 1,700 calls and 126 incidents overnight, with firefighters having to rescue various people trapped in vehicles. In Aldaia, Valencia, the La Saleta ravine overflowed, flooding streets, though flood barriers mitigated worse outcomes. Mayor Guillermo Lujan reported 57 litres per square meter of rain in just 35 minutes but mentioned that water levels have since receded, with no evacuations required.

Trains cancelled due to torrential rains and floods

On the coast, In Castellon, firefighters rescued a person trapped in a vehicle in Sant Jordi, while Cabanes recorded 99.4 litres per square meter of rain in just four hours. Metrovalencia adjusted its services to a Saturday schedule due to the red alert, with Line 2 suspended between Santa Rita and Llíria. High-speed AVE trains from Castellon to Madrid and Valencia to Barcelona faced delays of up to 62 minutes. Tarragona’s Montsia and Baix Ebre regions received a second mobile alert for torrential rains within 24 hours, warning of school closures and warnings to avoid travel and flood-prone areas.

The Spanish Traffic Authority reported eight roads closed across Valencia, Catalonia, and Aragón due to flooding. In response, Aragon’s government deployed six ground crews, heavy machinery, and technical teams to assist with cleanup efforts in affected areas like Cuarte de Huerva. As the storm subsides, authorities continue to monitor conditions and urge residents to remain cautious.