Storm Gabrielle Triggers Red Alerts and Flooding in Eastern Spain

Heavy rains driven by Storm Gabrielle triggered red alerts and widespread disruption across eastern Spain on Sunday night and into Monday, with the State Meteorological Agency Aemet warning of "extraordinary danger" for the provinces of Valencia, Castellón and Tarragona. Emergency services rescued motorists trapped by sudden flooding, rail services were delayed and numerous roads were cut off as authorities closed schools, libraries, parks, markets and other public facilities in the city of Valencia and parts of the region.

Aemet and local officials said intense downpours produced rapid accumulations in some areas. In parts of Valencia more than 80 litres per square metre fell overnight, and the town of Aldaia recorded 57 litres per square metre in 35 minutes, prompting a ravine in the area to overflow. Rescuers reached several people stranded in vehicles; authorities reported no serious injuries in the initial incidents. Residents in the city of Valencia received emergency mobile alerts from Civil Protection advising them to avoid travel and seek higher ground where necessary.

Forecasters warned the worst could be ahead. Aemet placed Tarragona, Castellón and Valencia on red...