The situation in Andalusia has sharply deteriorated: a powerful storm has completely disrupted the region’s usual rhythm of life. Rail traffic has been almost paralyzed, immediately impacting thousands of residents and visitors. The sudden halt of trains and road closures have become a real ordeal for everyone who relied on the stability of the transport system.
Authorities were forced to take emergency measures to minimize the impact of the storm. Not only were high-speed trains between major cities suspended, but also regional routes, leading to serious disruptions in mobility. The impact is especially severe on routes such as Córdoba–Sevilla and Córdoba–Málaga, where all services have been cancelled. The only exception is the Madrid–Córdoba line, but it too operates with restrictions.
Transport at risk
The restrictions have affected not only railways. Dozens of highways have been flooded or blocked due to landslides and overflowing rivers. In some areas, traffic has come to a complete stop, while in others, chain use is mandatory or trucks are prohibited. The situation is particularly dire in the province of Cádiz, where more than twenty roads have become impassable due to flooding.
Emergency services are operating in heightened mode, but the scale of the disaster makes it impossible to quickly restore transport access. Drivers are strongly advised to avoid any travel except for the most essential needs. In some cases, even evacuation becomes impossible due to the raging elements.
Weather alert
Meteorologists warn that conditions may worsen in the coming hours. Heavy rains and strong winds continue to threaten not only Andalusia but also other regions of the country. Some areas have declared the highest danger level, and forecasts do not rule out further flooding and landslides.
Special attention is being paid to road and railway safety. Authorities stress that at the slightest risk, it is better to refrain from travel and to follow updates to official warnings. In some locations, restrictions have already been imposed on all types of transport to prevent new incidents.
Regional impact
The economic and social consequences are already being felt: train cancellations and road blockages have disrupted the plans of thousands, affecting businesses and logistics. Tourist routes are inaccessible, and deliveries are delayed. In some settlements, residents have found themselves cut off from the outside world.
The authorities of Andalusia and local municipalities are working to restore infrastructure, but there is no timetable yet for a return to normal life. The effects of the storm are expected to be felt for several more days, and possibly longer if weather conditions do not improve.
Context and Experience
Such weather disasters are not uncommon for Spain, especially during the winter and spring months. In recent years, the country has already faced destructive storms that have led to mass transport cancellations and flooding. For instance, in 2023 a similar storm paralyzed traffic in Valencia and Murcia, while in 2024 heavy rains disrupted airport operations in the Balearic Islands. Each time, the consequences have been serious: services were interrupted, supply disruptions occurred, and the restoration of infrastructure took weeks. These events highlight how vulnerable transport systems are to extreme weather events.
