Torrential rains triggered devastating floods in parts of southern Spain, killing at least two people and leaving several others missing as emergency crews raced to rescue stranded residents and clear inundated roads.
The heaviest rainfall struck rural and coastal communities in Andalusia and Murcia, where swollen rivers overflowed and flash floods swept through streets, homes, and farmland. Videos shared on local media showed cars being carried away by powerful currents and streets turning into fast-moving rivers.
A sudden and violent storm
Meteorologists described the storm as one of the most intense of the season, fueled by a slow-moving weather system that dumped large volumes of rain in just a few hours. Authorities issued red-level weather alerts — the highest possible — urging residents to avoid travel and stay indoors.
Firefighters and civil-protection teams were deployed with boats, helicopters, and rescue vehicles. Dozens of people were evacuated from homes, while others were rescued from rooftops and stranded vehicles.
Search efforts continue
Local officials confirmed that two bodies had been recovered from flood-affected areas. Search operations continue for several missing people, including drivers last seen attempting to cross flooded roads.
“In a matter of minutes, the water rose above car doors,” one resident said. “We had to climb to the second floor — we’ve never seen anything like this.”
Infrastructure and agriculture hit hard
The floods damaged bridges, power lines, and irrigation systems, while parts of the road network remain closed. Early reports suggest significant losses for farmers, as fields of vegetables and citrus crops were submerged.
Authorities warned that more rainfall could follow in some regions, raising concerns about landslides and additional flooding.
Government response
Spain’s central government expressed condolences to the families of the victims and said disaster assistance would be made available. Regional authorities pledged rapid repairs and promised support for affected households and farms.
Emergency services urged residents not to underestimate flood risks:
“Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Most flood-related deaths happen in vehicles.”
Climate context
Experts note that extreme rain events in the Mediterranean region are becoming more frequent, driven in part by warming seas and shifting weather patterns — intensifying the risk of sudden, destructive floods.
For now, communities in southern Spain are left counting the cost — and waiting anxiously for the water to recede.
