Valencia braces for torrential rains and flooding

Spain's Valencia region faces renewed weather threats as torrential rains return, just two weeks after devastating floods claimed over 200 lives. The national weather agency AEMET has issued its highest red alert, forecasting up to 180 millimeters of rain within 12 hours.

Valencia authorities have implemented extensive precautionary measures, including closures of schools, universities, day centers, and sports facilities. Travel restrictions limit road access to essential vehicles only. Residents in hard-hit areas like Paiporta have fortified their homes with sandbags and planks, while concerns mount about mud-clogged sewage systems' ability to handle additional rainfall.

The crisis has expanded to southern Spain, particularly affecting Andalusia. In Malaga, emergency services have evacuated nearly 3,000 residents from over 1,000 homes. The city's commercial center stands deserted, with roads submerged in rising waters. Local infrastructure has been significantly impacted, with Malaga's metro system closed and airport operations disrupted. The high-speed rail services connecting Madrid to both Malaga and Valencia have been suspended.

The October 29 floods killed 223 people, predominantly in Valencia, with damage estimates expected to reach tens of billions of euros. A crucial parliamentary session to address regional leader Carlos Mazon's crisis management has been postponed.

Scientists attribute these intense weather events to the interaction between cold air and warm Mediterranean waters, noting that climate change is increasing their severity and frequency. The situation continues to evolve as Spain grapples with this latest meteorological challenge.