Floods in Catalonia: two dead and one missing

Yesterday 08:37

Two people lost their lives and another was reported missing on Sunday after heavy rains caused flooding in several areas of Catalonia, in northeastern Spain.

The toll was communicated by Catalan authorities as the region faced an exceptionally intense weather episode. A red alert had been issued due to the risks associated with heavy rainfall and flooding.

Two deaths linked to the severe weather

The President of Catalonia, Salvador Illa, confirmed the death of a man in Tordera, north of Barcelona. The victim was killed after a wall collapsed.

A second death was reported in Montornès del Vallès, according to rescue services. Meanwhile, rescue teams continued their search in Pineda de Mar, where one person was reported missing.

Authorities remained mobilized in several areas affected by the torrential rains.

Roads and homes submerged

The rainfall caused significant disruptions in several localities near Barcelona. Homes were flooded and vehicles were partially or completely submerged, particularly in Bellvitge and Cornellà.

Large amounts of water also accumulated on several roadways, severely disrupting traffic.

In light of the deteriorating weather conditions, Catalan authorities had urged the population to stay indoors for part of the weekend.

Transport and activities heavily disrupted

The severe weather also paralyzed part of daily life. Flights were canceled or delayed at Barcelona airport, while local train traffic was significantly disrupted.

Several businesses closed earlier than planned, and sporting events were canceled. In Barcelona, a performance of “Aida” by Giuseppe Verdi at the Gran Teatre del Liceu was also canceled due to the weather conditions.

A weather phenomenon under close watch

The director of the regional meteorological service Meteocat, Sarai Sarroca, mentioned on Saturday the presence of an exceptional weather system over the Mediterranean.

Meteorological services had specifically warned that a phenomenon described as a “mini-hurricane” could move towards Catalonia, accompanied by further heavy rainfall.

As rescue operations continue, authorities remain vigilant against the risk of further flooding and the consequences of a weather episode that has already heavily impacted several sectors of Catalonia.