“Extraordinary Risk” Alarm sounded in Guardalhorce area of Malaga. « Euro Weekly News

A red alert for floods has just sounded in the Costa del Sol, Guardalhorce area of Malaga. Just as the heavy rains, which had been relentlessly hammering the area since midnight the night before, seemed to be subsiding, the alert sounded on mobile phones across the region, warning of further rains and an”extraordinary flood risk”.

The message reads that the Civil Protection have activated flood protection measures, requesting that the population avoid any non-essential trips out of home and to avoid any activities in or near flood run-offs, to avoid crossing them and to avoid parking cars in or near them. If you live in or near an area prone to flooding, the message asks that you move to an upper floor if available.

The warning goes on to request that we all respect any signage warning of cut-off roads and recommends calling 112 in the event of emergencies. Many roads have already been cut by local authorities in Cartama, on the Guadalhorce river, and near Casares. For further information on what to do in the event of a flood, the message came with the link https://lajunta.es/5rolh. The alert is expected to end at midnight.

Flood safety advice from the Junta de Andalucia

Before the Rain: Regularly check your roof and downpipes. Remove any debris, leaves, soil or other material that could block the flow of water to the sewer, ditch or nearby channel.Clear the outside of your home of items such as furniture, plant pots or awnings that could be swept away by floodwater and cause injury.

• If you keep toxic products (weedkillers, insecticides, etc.) at home, store them in high places out of reach of water to prevent contamination.
• Place valuable possessions, important documents and high-worth items on the upper floors of your home to protect them from water damage as far as possible.
• Keep a first-aid kit ready, along with any medicines regularly or occasionally used by family members.
• Draw up an emergency plan with your family. Teach them how to act and how to dial 112 in an emergency. Agree on a meeting point for after the flood.
• It is advisable to keep enough non-perishable food at home for about three days that does not require refrigeration or cooking.

During Heavy Rain, Stay calm

Avoid panic, rumours or false information. Follow instructions from the authorities, either in person or via official media and social media accounts.

• Secure doors and windows firmly against water and wind damage. Switch off all electrical appliances.
• Never touch any wet electrical appliance that is still connected.
• Do not park vehicles or camp in dry riverbeds or near riverbanks, to avoid being caught by a sudden flash flood.
• Be prepared to leave your home and head to the pre-arranged safe location if your property is at risk or if ordered by the authorities.

If you must evacuate and time allows:

• Take family documents, a small first-aid kit, food, warm clothing, small valuables, a torch and a battery-powered radio.
• Turn off electricity, gas and water supplies.

Advice for Motorists

• Avoid travel wherever possible, especially at night when hazards are harder to see.
• If you must drive, check road conditions first.
• Even a slight dip in the road can hide deep water.
• Watch for landslides, potholes and obstacles.
• Drive slowly through puddles to prevent water entering the engine. Check brakes frequently after passing through water, as they may not work properly when wet.
• Never attempt to drive through flooded areas.
• If water rises around your vehicle, it becomes stuck or reaches wheel-axle level, abandon it and move to higher ground.
• If the vehicle begins to sink and doors will not open, escape through a window immediately.

After the Emergency

• Only return home when officially authorised.
• Inspect the property carefully for structural risks. If in doubt, call 112.
• Drink bottled water in preference to tap water.
• Remove any dead animals promptly, following hygiene guidelines.
• Start cleaning from the highest areas. Place unusable items on the pavement or roadside without blocking traffic.
• Assist rescue and clean-up teams with clearing public areas near your home where possible.
• RememberStay calm.

Ignore rumours and follow official advice from authorities via media or official social media.In an emergency, always call 112 – we are here to help you.

What the Red Alert Message reads as in English: