A flash flood hit the Catalan town of Girona, Spain, overnight, causing significant damage. More than 30 cars were swept away. No deaths or injuries were reported, but the incident highlighted the vulnerability of coastal communities to extreme weather.
Floodwaters swept through the town, carrying debris and parked cars. Authorities reported more than 100mm of rain in a short period of time early in the morning. Floodwaters overflowed their banks, blocking bridges and creating dangerous conditions.
Although no one was injured, the property damage was extensive. Many cars, including some with foreign license plates, were destroyed. Video shows cars piled up and twisted near the local casino and along the bridge.
Girona is a historic town with a significant arts scene. Salvador Dalí, a famous Surrealist artist, lived and worked in Girona. The town’s population swells during the peak tourist season.
The recent flooding in Girona follows devastating flooding in Valencia, which killed more than 200 people. The incident highlights the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events in Spain and elsewhere, affecting both locals and tourists.
Commuter rail services were suspended across northeastern Catalonia following emergency warnings, affecting millions of residents. Transport Minister Oscar Puente announced the suspension of services based on advice from civil protection agencies. This was clearly a swift response to the growing threat. The incident highlights the need for robust infrastructure and disaster preparedness to better protect these communities.