Severe weather conditions linked to Storm Francis are also affecting aviation on the Costa del Sol, with operations at Málaga–Costa del Sol Airport under close monitoring as heavy rain and flooding impact the wider region.
Spain’s state airport operator Aena has activated adverse-weather protocols at Málaga Airport, including continuous runway inspections and drainage monitoring, as rainfall totals in parts of Málaga province reached extreme levels. Although the airport has remained operational, airlines have warned passengers to expect delays, cancellations, and possible diversions, particularly during periods of intense rainfall and reduced visibility.
Access to the airport has also been affected, with flooding reported on roads in the Guadalhorce valley and surrounding municipalities. Authorities have urged travelers to allow extra time for ground transport and to check flight status directly with their airlines before setting out.
Aviation sources say that while Málaga Airport is equipped to handle heavy rain, the volume and intensity of precipitation forecast under the red alert increases the risk of temporary operational slowdowns, especially during peak arrival and departure waves.
Passengers flying to or from the Costa del Sol during the storm have been advised to remain flexible, monitor official updates, and follow guidance from emergency services until weather conditions stabilize and alerts are lifted.
The impact of the storm is already being felt. Around 30 people were forced to flee their homes in Malaga province after intense rainfall caused three rivers to burst their banks on Sunday. Emergency services were deployed to assist affected residents as water levels rose rapidly.
In the town of Cartama, west of Malaga city, local authorities opened an emergency shelter in a sports pavilion after torrential downpours inundated low-lying areas. Officials said the storm dumped an extraordinary 170 litres of rain per square metre in less than 12 hours, overwhelming drainage systems and triggering flash flooding.