Residents Raise Concerns Over Flood Prevention
Following recent torrential rains that caused flash flooding in Sant Cugat del Vallès, residents of the Centre district have called for more frequent cleaning of streams and drains. At a neighbourhood council meeting held on Tuesday 13 October 2026, locals highlighted the accumulation of reeds in stream beds and blocked drains as key risks for future flooding. One resident reported that municipal services sometimes cut reeds during maintenance but leave the plant debris in the watercourse. They warned that these remains could be swept downstream during heavy rain, potentially causing blockages elsewhere. Another resident questioned whether the council has a plan for regular drain maintenance, citing leaves and debris that can obstruct water inlets. The flooding on Carrer de Sant Jordi was specifically recalled, with residents noting recurring issues despite previous clean-up efforts.
Deputy Mayor Defends Municipal Response
Bernat Picornell, Deputy Mayor and president of the council meeting, defended the work of municipal services. He confirmed that cleaning operations had been carried out in some streams before the recent floods. He explained that reeds are intentionally maintained in certain areas to stabilise soil and prevent erosion. However, Picornell acknowledged he was unaware of instances where cut reeds were left in stream beds and pledged to investigate. On drain maintenance, he said municipal workers had carried out intensive cleaning, though he noted that debris can quickly re-accumulate during intense rainfall. Around 100 municipal workers were mobilised on Saturday night to prevent further flooding, according to official reports. Picornell stressed that the volume of rain, 130 litres per square metre in under 24 hours, exceeded forecasts and overwhelmed existing infrastructure. He pointed out that much of the water affecting Carrer de Sant Jordi came not from the usual stream route but from runoff down Carrer Doctor Murillo, indicating a need for broader analysis.
The consequences cannot be attributed solely to the cleanliness of the streams. We need to assess whether our infrastructure is sufficient for such extreme events.
, Bernat Picornell, Deputy Mayor
Technicians’ Meeting Proposed
In response to residents’ concerns, Picornell proposed organising a meeting with municipal technicians. The session would explain current maintenance protocols for streams and drainage, the criteria used, and explore possible improvements to help the city adapt to increasingly intense rainfall episodes.
Primary sources: cugat.cat, premsa.santcugat.cat, Sant Cugat del Vallès. Reported by totsantcugat.cat, santcugataldia.com.
