Catastrophic floods paralyze Barcelona: El Prat Airport underwater, flights grounded

Barcelona has been plunged into chaos as relentless torrential rains have triggered severe flooding, leading to the cancellation of 50 flights and significant disruptions at El Prat Airport. The Spanish meteorological agency has issued a red alert, warning of “extreme danger” and advising residents to avoid non-essential travel.

El Prat Airport Submerged

The unprecedented rainfall has inundated parts of El Prat Airport, causing substantial operational challenges. Passengers have been seen wading through waterlogged terminals, and numerous flights have been either canceled or diverted. The airport operator, Aena, confirmed that 50 flights were canceled due to the severe weather conditions.

Transportation Paralysis

Beyond the airport, the deluge has led to the closure of several highways and the suspension of commuter train services in northeast Catalonia. Transport Minister Óscar Puente stated that these measures were necessary to ensure public safety amid the ongoing storms.

Valencia’s Tragic Aftermath

The flooding in Barcelona follows catastrophic flash floods in the Valencia region, where at least 217 people have lost their lives. The death toll is expected to rise, with many still missing. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has deployed thousands of soldiers to assist in rescue and recovery operations.

Public Outcry and Political Tensions

The government’s response has faced criticism from affected communities. During a visit to the flood-stricken town of Paiporta, King Felipe and Prime Minister Sánchez were met with protests, with some residents expressing frustration over the perceived delayed response.

Experts attribute the severity of these floods to climate change, noting that warmer air holds more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall events. The Mediterranean region has experienced increased instances of extreme weather, raising concerns about future climate resilience.

The flooding has not only caused human tragedy but also significant economic disruptions. The tourism sector, vital to Spain’s economy, faces challenges with canceled flights and disrupted services. Additionally, infrastructure damage will require substantial investment for repairs and future flood mitigation.

A climate scientist emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change: “These extreme weather events are becoming more frequent. Immediate action is needed to mitigate future risks.”

As rescue operations continue, authorities are focusing on providing aid to affected communities and restoring essential services. The government has pledged to review and enhance disaster preparedness plans to better handle such catastrophic events in the future.