Flash Floods Disrupt Travel in Spain’s Popular Tourist Areas

Severe weather has impacted travel plans for tourists visiting Spain, particularly in regions such as Barcelona and Zaragoza. Over the weekend, flash floods occurred as part of a storm system affecting 25 provinces. The Spanish meteorological agency, Aemet, reported that Tarazona in the Zaragoza province experienced nearly 100 mm of rainfall within an hour on July 12, 2024. This weather event, linked to a high-level isolated depression known as DANA, has raised concerns for travelers.

The storm led to temporary closures of popular attractions in Barcelona, including Park Güell and the Tibidabo amusement park. Beaches in the city posted red flags, indicating that swimming was prohibited due to unsafe conditions. The military was deployed in Zaragoza to manage excess water and set up roadblocks to mitigate further flooding.

As of Monday, no red (severe) weather warnings were in effect, though amber and yellow warnings remained for various regions. An amber warning was issued for the province of Andalucía, while yellow warnings were active in Castilla y León, Castilla-La Mancha, Extremadura, and the Community of Madrid. These warnings were set to remain in place from approximately 12:30 to 20:30 local time.

Forecasts suggest that temperatures in Barcelona could reach highs of 29°C in the coming days, with only a 5% chance of rain. The Balearic Islands, including Majorca and Ibiza, are expected to see temperatures soar to 33°C. In Andalucía, cities such as Seville are bracing for particularly high temperatures, with predictions reaching up to 40°C on Tuesday.

Travelers should be aware of their rights regarding travel disruptions. If your travel insurance covers natural disasters and your accommodation was affected by the floods, you may be eligible for compensation. It is advisable to review your policy and consult with your insurer.

For those reconsidering their plans, contacting travel providers for changes or cancellations is recommended. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has not issued travel advisories against any part of Spain. Consequently, tour operators are unlikely to cancel trips or offer refunds.

The Spanish Tourist Office encourages travelers to stay informed about local weather conditions and remain flexible in their plans due to potential disruptions in transport. Adhering to local authorities’ guidance is crucial for ensuring safety during this unpredictable weather period.