Renfe halts services during peak rainfall
Renfe has suspended high-speed and regional train services between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM on Tuesday 29 September 2026 due to forecast intense rainfall across Catalonia. The suspension affects AVE, Avant, Euromed, and Medium Distance services on the Northeast corridor, coinciding with the period of highest expected rainfall intensity. Passengers are advised to check service status before travelling, as the disruptions coincide with the morning commute.
Flood warnings in place across multiple regions
Protecció Civil has issued a hydrological alert at level 5 out of 6 for the central coast and pre-coastal areas, with the most intense rainfall expected between 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The Pla especial d'emergències per inundacions de Catalunya (INUNCAT) remains in alert phase, with monitoring focused on river overflows in Girona and surrounding comarques. The Catalan Water Agency (ACA) has warned of rising water levels in rivers including the Ter, Onyar, Muga, Fluvià, and Tordera. In Girona, residents have been urged not to approach the Onyar river, and those living near riverbanks are advised to move to upper floors if necessary. Authorities warn against crossing rivers, streams, fords, or low-lying areas on foot or by vehicle, as water levels can rise rapidly. The public is encouraged to follow updates via official channels and call 012 for information or 112 in emergencies.
Coastal 'bottle effect' increases flood risk
A marine storm is compounding the danger, with strong sea conditions preventing normal river outflows. This "bottle effect" could lead to flooding in coastal municipalities where rivers discharge into the sea. The situation is particularly concerning in urban areas adjacent to riverbanks. More information on preparedness and local recommendations is available via the INUNCAT emergency plan website.
Major roads affected by accidents and congestion
The AP-7 remains closed northbound near Vandellòs i l'Hospitalet de l'Infant after a parcel-carrying truck overturned at 4:49 AM, trapping the driver. Generalitat Firefighters carried out an extrication operation. Traffic is being diverted at exit 297, and delays are ongoing. On the A-2, heavy congestion persists eastbound between Sant Vicenç dels Horts and Castellbisbal. One lane is closed due to an active incident, while a previously cleared accident between Castellbisbal and Sant Vicenç dels Horts continues to cause delays. Additional slow traffic is reported on the B-30 between Cerdanyola del Vallès and Barberà del Vallès, and on the C-55 in Bages, where two kilometres of congestion stretch between Castellgalí and Sant Vicenç de Castellet towards Manresa.
Rodalies trains face speed restrictions
Rodalies services on lines R2 Sud, R2 Nord, R3, R4, and R8 are operating with temporary speed restrictions due to adverse weather. The precautionary measures are in place to ensure safety during the storm.
Mobility down due to public alert
Morning traffic in the Barcelona metropolitan area is slightly more fluid than usual, possibly due to reduced travel following an ES-Alert sent by the Generalitat the previous night. Many residents opted for teleworking to avoid commuting during the high-risk weather window.
Primary sources: govern.cat, Agència Catalana de l'Aigua. Reported by elperiodico.com, El Periódico Barcelona.
