Red Alert Issued in Barcelona as Extreme Weather Threatens Further Storms

Authorities have declared a red alert in Barcelona due to an extreme risk of more torrential rain, as the search for victims continues in areas affected by devastating flooding.

The death toll has risen to at least 217, with many individuals still unaccounted for after being trapped in cars, homes, and businesses during the recent heavy rainfall.

The local government in Catalonia has warned residents to expect "continuous and torrential" rain in several regions, advising them to avoid travel and stay away from streams and ravines. "Do not travel unless absolutely necessary," the warning emphasised, as search and rescue operations remain ongoing.

One of the critical areas of concern is the flooded underground parking lot at the Bonaire shopping centre, where fears persist that dozens of bodies may still be trapped in vehicles. However, firefighters at the scene have provided some reassurance. “Since yesterday afternoon, we have managed to access the parking lot using canoes, boats, drones, and on foot. Fortunately, we didn’t find any bodies,” a firefighter told El Pais.

While the situation remains fluid, firefighters noted that the current assessment indicates the cars in the parking lot are all empty. As search efforts continue, thousands of soldiers have been deployed to assist with the rescue operations, highlighting the scale of the response needed in the wake of this natural disaster.

Read more: Valencia floods