BREAKING: Spain Closes Schools, Parks As Flood Fears Grip Valencia

BREAKING: Spain Closes Schools, Parks As Flood Fears Grip Valencia

Schools, libraries, and parks in Valencia, eastern Spain, were shut down on Monday after torrential rains triggered a red alert, raising fears of a repeat of last year’s deadly floods.

Spain’s weather agency, AEMET, described the Mediterranean situation as “very complicated,” warning of potential extreme danger in the provinces of Valencia, Castellón, and Tarragona in neighbouring Catalonia.

Overnight rainfall led to flash floods and caused a ravine to overflow in Aldaia, one of the towns devastated by the October 2024 floods that claimed more than 230 lives. Authorities confirmed that no injuries have been recorded so far.

Local officials announced that schools, universities, and public facilities—including libraries, gardens, markets, and cemeteries—would remain closed throughout Valencia city on Monday.

The catastrophic flooding last year, which sparked outrage over inadequate warnings and slow emergency response, continues to fuel political tensions between Spain’s central government and regional authorities.

Many residents are still protesting, accusing leaders of failing to issue timely alerts.

Experts note that climate change, by creating warmer air that retains more moisture, is increasing both the frequency and severity of flooding caused by extreme rainfall.