After battering the Canary Islands, Storm Emilia has triggered red alerts for heavy rain on the Valencian coast and in Almería, with up to 250 liters per square meter possible. Schools are suspended in Valencia, roads disrupted in Almería, and authorities warn against travel amid flood risks.
Following its impact on the Canary Islands over the weekend—with strong winds and record snowfall in Teide National Park—Storm Emilia advanced to the Iberian Peninsula on Sunday. The State Meteorological Agency (Aemet) issued red alerts for extreme rainfall on the Valencian coast (up to 180 liters per square meter in 12 hours) and in Almería's Valle del Almanzora and Los Vélez (up to 120 liters), with totals potentially exceeding 250 liters.
In Valencia, the alert remains until 6:00 a.m. Monday before downgrading to orange. City Hall suspended classes in 32 flood-prone centers, while the University of Valencia and Polytechnic shifted online. Fourteen municipalities in Valencia and Castellón canceled school, affecting 78,744 students. Heavy rain already prompted rescues, including a couple in Vila-real via boat, with 146.4 liters recorded in Font d'En Carròs.
In Almería, around 30 incidents occurred, including three rescues in Huércal-Overa from rambla overflow and northern road closures. Maritime links between Algeciras and Ceuta were halted, and Renfe offered free changes in affected areas. Officials, including Valencian president Juanfran Pérez Llorca, urged avoiding riverbeds and flood zones. In the Canaries, lingering effects include 584 incidents in Tenerife with Teide access closed, though conditions are improving.
