The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) issued a red alert on Saturday, December 13, for the coast of Valencia province ahead of Sunday, as Storm Emilia passes through the region. Rainfall began in several areas early on Saturday.
Worst of the weather expected on Sunday, December 14
Sunday is expected to bring the worst of the weather, with Aemet forecasting a “very adverse” situation that could last for the next 36 hours. During this period, episodes of “thunderstorms and rain” are expected to be “persistent and locally torrential.” The agency has warned that rainfall could “exceed 180 litres per square metre” in just twelve hours.
Northern coast set to be hit hardest
Specifically, in the northern coastal areas, Emilia is expected to “mainly affect the southern half,” with total rainfall potentially reaching around 250 litres per square metre. Meanwhile, Castellón and Alicante remain under yellow alerts — in Castellón from 17:00 to 23:59 and in Alicante all day.
SMS warnings sent to residents
Authorities have sent SMS alerts to residents, warning them to take precautions as the storm approaches. The message, received across the region, urges people to avoid unnecessary travel and to follow official safety instructions.
Memories of the deadly DANA of 2024
Many locals remember the deadly DANA of 2024, which caused widespread flooding and claimed numerous lives. That disaster remains fresh in the public memory, and the current red alert has heightened fears as people brace for heavy rains and potential flooding.
Outlook for Monday
Looking ahead to Monday, Aemet maintains an orange alert in Valencia until 06:00 and a yellow alert in Castellón until 18:00. The forecast predicts “very cloudy skies, with locally heavy or very heavy showers, persistent and accompanied by thunderstorms in Valencia and Castellón, easing from midday in Valencia and by the afternoon in Castellón.” Minimum temperatures will “fall,” while maximums will see “slight changes.” Winds will blow “generally from the east, light overall and moderate on the coast, shifting to the west by the end of the day.”