A new system for naming the most dangerous weather events has come into effect in Spain. From now on, especially powerful cyclones capable of causing significant damage will receive their own names. The first storm in the country’s history to be named under this scheme has been called Alice, and in the coming days it is expected to trigger challenging weather conditions.
According to forecasts, starting on the evening of Wednesday, October 8, and continuing through Sunday, the 12th, prolonged and heavy rainfall is expected in the east of the country and the Balearic Islands. The situation is expected to be particularly severe in the coastal and foothill areas of southern Valencia and northern Alicante, where record amounts of rain could fall in a short period of time. The areas at risk also include Catalonia, Murcia, eastern Andalusia, and Castilla-La Mancha, while by the weekend the bad weather may reach the southeast of Aragón and the Balearic Islands.
Meteorologists warn that downpours may be accompanied by very strong thunderstorms, and sudden flooding is possible in low-lying areas, riverbeds, and ravines. Residents are advised to be especially cautious and to follow updates and warnings through official apps and websites.
The reason for such prolonged bad weather is a persistent anticyclone in the north, which is blocking the movement of air masses and allowing moist sea air to flow in from the east and northeast. This configuration will prevent the cyclone from quickly leaving the region, so the rain may last for several consecutive days.
The name Alice was chosen from a list agreed upon by the meteorological services of Spain, Portugal, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Andorra. It is important to note that names will be assigned only to those cyclones that trigger orange or red weather alerts. This measure aims to prevent confusion and improve the effectiveness of informing the public about real threats.
