An orange weather warning for heavy rain and thunderstorms began at 20:00 on Monday in the provinces of Barcelona and Tarragona. Residents, drivers and people travelling this evening are being advised to avoid non-essential journeys, flooded routes, underpasses and other low-lying areas where water can accumulate quickly.
The Catalan Meteorological Service, Meteocat, and Protecció Civil, Catalonia's civil-protection service, have activated the Inuncat plan, the regional emergency plan for flooding. The warning is classified as an important danger level and covers the coast and pre-coastal areas.
Heavy rain and storms forecast overnight
Meteocat's forecast, cited in reports published on Monday, warns that rainfall may exceed 40 litres per square metre in 30 minutes in some places. Storms may also bring hail and strong wind gusts.
- The orange warning began in Barcelona and Tarragona at 20:00 on Monday 28 September.
- In Barcelona, it is scheduled to remain in force until 15:00 on Tuesday 29 September.
- In Girona, the orange warning is due to continue until 18:00 on Tuesday.
Advice for residents and drivers
Protecció Civil's advice is to avoid crossing rieras, the normally dry stream beds that can fill rapidly during heavy rain, or any flooded road or pedestrian crossing. Drivers should take particular care on the roads.
- Postpone journeys that are not essential while the warning is in force.
- Keep away from underpasses, flood-prone locations and watercourses.
- Secure awnings and loose objects on balconies against possible strong gusts.
Residents should monitor further notices from Meteocat and Protecció Civil, which may issue additional alerts or restrict activities if conditions worsen.
Primary sources: eb.gencat.cat. Reported by Barcelona Secreta, moncloa.com, rtve.es, 20 Minutos Barcelona, CatalunyaPress.cat, larazon.es, icab.es.
