Deadly Landslides in Mexico and Severe Floods in Spain Triggered by Intense Storms

The recent severe weather has resulted in deadly landslides in Mexico and severe floods in Spain. Both countries are grappling with the consequences of intense storms that have caused significant damage and loss of life.

Severe Flooding in Spain

Less than a year after catastrophic floods on 29 October 2022, Spain is facing another deluge. The latest storms have affected coastal regions from Alicante and Benidorm to Barcelona and the Balearic Islands. Rainfall has reached totals between 100-200mm (3.9-7.8 inches), with some areas experiencing hourly rates exceeding 60mm.

This extreme weather has led to flash flooding, travel disruptions, and substantial property damage. Spain’s state meteorological agency, Aemet, has identified this weather event as the first high-impact Dana of the autumn season. Dana, which stands for “depresión aislada en niveles altos,” refers to isolated upper-atmospheric depressions that can cause torrential rain, thunderstorms, and powerful winds.

Storm Alice: The First Named Dana

The current system, designated Storm Alice, is the first Dana to receive an official name. The Southwest European Storm Naming Group, which includes Spain, Portugal, France, Belgium, Andorra, and Luxembourg, established a list of names for such weather events. Naming storms aims to reduce public confusion regarding the severity and potential impact of these systems.

Storm Alice is expected to bring continued heavy rain for the next few days, though the worst conditions will shift eastward toward Italy’s Sardinia and Sicily. Some areas in Valencia are still reeling from last year’s flooding, highlighting the ongoing vulnerabilities associated with severe weather.

Deadly Landslides and Floods in Mexico

Simultaneously, Mexico is battling severe weather, particularly in its central and southeastern regions. Approximately 40 fatalities have been confirmed, and many individuals remain missing due to landslides triggered by the intense rains. The storms have left about 300,000 people without power, in addition to damaging an estimated 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) of roadways.

The recent flooding coincides with Tropical Storm Raymond, which is the third named storm to impact Mexico after Octave and Priscilla. Raymond is gradually moving north-west and is expected to dissipate near the US border. Flooding and landslides due to these storms have heightened concerns for public safety and infrastructure integrity.

Summary of Events

• Spain: Recent floods have affected Alicante, Benidorm, and Barcelona with 100-200mm of rain.
• Storm Alice: First named Dana to assist public understanding of severe weather.
• Mexico: 40 deaths reported due to landslides; 300,000 people affected by power outages.
• Tropical Storm Raymond: Current storm system alongside recent heavy rainfall.

As both countries contend with the aftermath of these intense storms, efforts to respond to and recover from the damage will be critical. Awareness and preparedness are essential to mitigate the impacts of future weather events.