In brief
As one of the most destructive rain events this year strikes southern Spain, farmers and residents face severe impacts from sheer rainfall totals that exceed typical monthly averages.
On the night of October 28, a powerful storm unleashed torrential rain across southern and eastern Spain, particularly affecting regions like Andalusia and cities such as Valencia and Malaga. Manuel Yerai, a farmer from El Ejido, reported catastrophic damage as hail the size of tennis balls devastated his pepper crops and destroyed greenhouse structures. "My greenhouses look like they had been shot at," he lamented, illustrating the severe conditions of the storm.Meteorological experts revealed that these intense storms brought with them an astounding 150 to 200 liters of rain per square meter over just two hours—equivalent to over a month’s worth of precipitation in certain areas. This has resulted in submerged streets, overflowing rivers, and shattered windows. Spain's meteorological agency expressed grave concern regarding this deluge, deeming the rainfall levels indicative of "extreme danger." As experts anticipate more rain through the weekend, they are advising residents to avoid non-essential travel.Rescue crews have been dispatched to affected areas, such as Alora, where citizens have faced life-threatening conditions due to the rapidly rising waters. "These are unprecedented amounts of rainfall," explained Rubén del Campo, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation as farmers and local authorities brace for the potential continuation of severe weather.
