Severe Weather Wreaks Havoc in Malaga and Costa del Sol: Expats Advised to Exercise Caution

A powerful red-level storm has brought chaos to the regions of Malaga and Costa del Sol, prompting widespread evacuations, school closures, and significant disruptions to daily life.

Extreme Rainfall and Flooding

On November 13, 2024, a severe weather alert was issued by the Spanish state weather agency, Aemet, warning of extreme rainfall that would batter the region until at least 11:59 PM. The alert predicted at least 120mm of rain per square meter, with some areas facing a higher flood risk than others.

Evacuations and School Closures

Hundreds of people have been evacuated from their homes along the Guadalhorce riverbed, including towns such as Alora, Pizarra, and Alhaurín de la Torre. The evacuations have also extended to coastal towns like Benalmádena. Schools across the Malaga province have been closed as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff.

Hospital and Road Conditions

The Hospital Clínico in Malaga has been severely affected, with footage showing the hospital filling up with water. Roads in Velez-Malaga and Torre del Mar are inundated with muddy floodwater, causing significant travel disruptions. Residents are advised to avoid all unnecessary travel and to keep updated with the latest news.

Tornado in Marbella

Adding to the chaos, a tornado was spotted in the Costa del Sol resort of Marbella. Footage shared online shows the tornado approaching a popular tourist beach, Playa de Cable, before making contact with the sand. This unexpected event has left many, including British tourists, in shock.

Safety Advice

In light of the recent deadly DANA floods in Valencia, which resulted in numerous deaths of drivers swept away in their vehicles, the Junta de Andalucía has issued critical safety advice. If drivers find themselves in a situation where their car is being swept away by floodwaters, they are advised to prepare to abandon the vehicle immediately when the water rises above the wheel's axis.

Travel Disruptions

Travellers are advised to monitor flights and trains closely, as some disruptions are expected due to the severe weather conditions. The whole Costa del Sol and Axarquia regions are under an extreme risk warning due to the severe rainfall.

Community Response

The community has come together to share updates and footage of the flooding, highlighting the severity of the situation. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow all instructions from local authorities to ensure their safety.

As the situation continues to unfold, expats and residents alike are advised to remain cautious and stay informed through official channels to navigate this challenging weather event safely.