Severe flooding has impacted Catalonia as the deadly DANA storm batters the region, bringing torrential rains and widespread disruption.
The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) has issued a red warning for Catalonia, focusing on coastal and pre-coastal areas, while Meteocat, the Catalan meteorological service, warns of “significant danger.”
Particularly hard-hit areas include Baix Llobregat and surrounding communities, where Civil Protection has labeled the storm as posing “maximum danger” due to extreme rainfall.
Barcelona’s coastal areas are experiencing rainfall accumulation rates of up to 180 liters per square meter within just 12 hours. The C-32 road, a critical route between Castelldefels and Sant Boi de Llobregat, is closed due to flooding in Gavà. The Catalan Traffic Service (SCT) is advising residents to avoid non-essential travel as conditions continue to worsen.
At Barcelona Airport, severe leaks and flooding have created significant challenges for travelers. Terminal T1 and the airport’s parking facilities are among the worst-affected areas, with 96 liters of rain recorded so far.
#Aeropuerto Internacional de #ElPrat de #Barcelona, #CataluÑa, #España 🇪🇦 04-Noviembre-2024 #BCN
🌨️ #DANA 🌧️ #Tormenta 🌧️ #LEBL #Inundación 🌧️ #LluviasTorrenciales pic.twitter.com/5Goipe0f4N— Iván Castro Palacios (@ivancp25) November 4, 2024
Flights have faced substantial disruptions, with 17 diversions and a high volume of delays, leaving many passengers stranded or adjusting their travel plans. Authorities at the airport are working to manage the effects of the storm, but conditions remain challenging as rain continues.
Other areas in Catalonia, including Tarragona and Sitges, are also under severe weather alerts. Tarragona, under an orange warning, has already seen rainfall levels of 110 liters per square meter. In Sitges, 59 liters were recorded, adding to the flood risks in the region. Aemet has warned that the heavy rains could continue throughout the day, bringing further challenges to infrastructure and travel.
Authorities urge residents to exercise caution and adhere to travel advisories. With ongoing disruptions, travelers are advised to monitor local news and official channels to stay updated on evolving conditions. As Catalonia grapples with the devastation, local agencies are focused on managing both immediate safety concerns and longer-term recovery efforts.
