Last week’s brutal storms, which devastated eastern Spain with deadly flooding, have now struck Barcelona, resulting in flash floods that have submerged the city’s main airport and closed several motorways.
As the situation worsens, the country’s weather service has issued a red alert for rain along the Barcelona coastline.
Residents are being advised to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary and to remain vigilant as the heavy rains continue.
Urgent Alerts and Road Closures
In a stark reminder of the storm’s severity, mobile phones across the southern outskirts of Barcelona blared alerts warning of “extreme and continued rainfall.”
Residents were specifically cautioned to steer clear of areas that are typically dry, such as gorges and canals, which are now at risk of flooding.
The heavy rains have led to mudslides, blocking roads and making travel perilous for many motorists attempting to return home amidst rising waters.
At the airport, alarming videos surfaced showing water streaming into parking areas and the terminal, with travelers wading through flooded hallways.
In response, Spain’s Transport Minister, Oscar Puente, reported that airport operator Aena had to divert 15 incoming flights to El Prat airport due to the storm.
Public Transportation Impacted
The impact of the storm has rippled through public transportation as well.
Catalonia’s suburban train services have been suspended, and many metro stations and roads are closed as authorities work to limit movement and prevent a repeat of last week’s tragedies.
Continuing Search Efforts in Valencia
Meanwhile, in Valencia, the grim task of searching for bodies continues amid the wreckage left by last week’s floods.
Thousands of cars litter the streets, highways, and canals as emergency crews, volunteers, and military personnel join forces to clear mud and debris.
Tragically, British couple Terry and Don Turner, aged 74 and 78, who were missing since the torrential rains began, have been confirmed dead.
Their daughter, Ruth O’Loughlin from Staffordshire, reported that their bodies were found inside their car in a rural area near their home in Pedralba, about 45 minutes from Valencia.
Community Mourning and Memories
Mayor Andoni Leon announced that local volunteers discovered the Turners’ bodies during a search led by the town hall, with no outside assistance available.
Friends shared that the couple had simply stepped out to get gas when the storm struck.
Ruth recalled how friends went to check on them after not hearing from them, only to find the key still in the door and their dogs at home, but no sign of her parents.
Having moved to Spain ten years ago to enjoy the sunshine, the couple was well-loved in their community.
Ruth recounted her last conversation with her mother, where they discussed home improvements and plans for a visit next year.
The devastating news of the floods left her frantic as she tried to contact her parents, who had gone silent.
Tragic Toll of the Floods
The Turners’ deaths now bring the total number of British casualties to three, with another British man succumbing to complications after being rescued from the floods in Malaga.
At least 217 people are confirmed dead, making this disaster the deadliest in recent Spanish history.
Rescue efforts are ongoing as teams search through cars and underground garages, fearing that more victims may still be discovered.
Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, has stated that this catastrophe marks the second deadliest flood in Europe this century, highlighting the scale of this tragedy.
As the search continues, the nation mourns the lives lost and grapples with the aftermath of this natural disaster.
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