Jamie Spencer
Barcelona is grappling with severe flooding as torrential rain continues to hammer the city, affecting transport, schools, and daily life. The latest victim of the storm is Barcelona El Prat Airport, where flooding has forced the cancellation and delay of numerous flights. Videos circulating on social media show water pouring into the terminal, adding to the chaos in one of Spain’s busiest airports.
Red Weather Warning and Travel Disruptions
Spain’s national weather agency, AEMET, has issued a red weather warning for Barcelona, citing “extreme danger due to torrential rain.” Authorities have advised people to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. Parents were also instructed not to pick up their children from schools, which have been designated as safe places during the storm.
The airport operator, Aena, has confirmed that 70 flights have been canceled and at least 17 diverted to other airports. The airport has set up a crisis committee to manage the situation, with water reportedly flooding both the terminal and one of the runways. Passengers have been advised to check with their airlines for updates on their flights, as the disruption is expected to continue into the evening. Many upcoming departures and arrivals have been delayed or canceled, with access to the airport made even more difficult by flooded roads and disrupted public transport services.
Public Transport Paralyzed by Flooding
Barcelona’s metro system, trains, and bus services have also been severely impacted by the flooding. High-speed trains between Barcelona and Tarragona have been suspended due to flooding in a tunnel along the route, halting services by operators like Renfe, Ouigo, and Iryo. Additionally, Catalonia’s Rodalies commuter rail services have been suspended.
Several metro stations are closed, including Liceu (L3) and Rambla Just Oliveras (L1), and the L9 Sud line, which serves El Prat Airport, has been suspended between Parc Nou and Aeroport T1. The city’s Cable Car, Funicular, and Tourist Bus services have also been halted, adding to the widespread travel disruption.
Schools and Public Safety Measures
In light of the extreme conditions, schools have remained open, with authorities urging parents not to attempt traveling to pick up their children. Officials reassured the public that schools are among the safest places during the storm, as the city focuses on keeping people off the roads and reducing risks to public safety.
Widespread Impacts Across Spain
Barcelona is the latest region in Spain to face the wrath of extreme weather. Just days earlier, the Valencia region was devastated by flash floods, with the death toll surpassing 200. Recovery and cleanup efforts continue in those areas as the country braces for more severe weather.
With no sign of the rain letting up, residents and travelers are urged to stay informed of weather warnings and travel advisories. Authorities are working to mitigate the impact, but the scale of the storm has left much of Barcelona paralyzed.
