Schools, Public Spaces Shut In Spain As Heavy Rains Spark Red Alert

Schools, libraries, and parks were closed on Monday in Valencia, eastern Spain, after torrential rains triggered a red alert and fears of a repeat of last year’s deadly floods.

Spain’s national weather agency, AEMET, warned of a “very complicated situation” across the Mediterranean region.

Overnight downpours caused localised flooding and forced a ravine to overflow in Aldaia, one of the towns worst hit during the October 2024 floods that claimed more than 230 lives. No injuries have been reported so far.

Authorities warned of “extraordinary danger” in the provinces of Valencia and Castellón, as well as in Tarragona, Catalonia. In Valencia city, schools and universities will remain closed on Monday, alongside public spaces such as libraries, gardens, parks, markets, and cemeteries.

Last year’s disaster fueled public anger over poor warning systems and sluggish emergency responses, intensifying political tensions between Spain’s left-leaning central government and conservative regional leaders. Residents continue to protest, accusing authorities of failing to provide timely alerts.

Scientists warned that climate change is amplifying such disasters, since a warmer atmosphere can hold more water, increasing the risk and intensity of flooding from extreme rainfall.