Catalonia is once again at the center of a natural disaster: Storm Harry, raging since the weekend, continues to gain strength today. The northwestern regions and coastal areas have been hit the hardest. The Mediterranean Sea is in turmoil—wave heights already exceed four meters and could reach seven in some places. Authorities are expressing concern as the situation along the coast becomes critical, prompting immediate response measures.
This morning, residents of coastal municipalities received alarming messages on their mobile phones. The Es-alert system was activated in the towns and villages of Baix Llobregat, Barcelonès, Maresme, Selva, Montsià, and Baix Ebre. People are urged to stay away from the sea and exercise maximum caution. Barcelona authorities have declared a state of emergency: access to breakwaters has been blocked, and the City Guard is patrolling the beaches. Five kilometers of coastline are under round-the-clock surveillance—this is no exaggeration.
Emergency measures
At 10 a.m., the technical emergency committee convened at the Catalonia Coordination Center (CECAT). The agenda focused on risk assessment and developing new measures to protect the public. According to Imma Solé, Deputy Head of Civil Protection, the storm has created four simultaneous threats: torrential rains, snowfalls, storm surges, and avalanches. Each requires specific attention and coordinated action.
Particular concern is raised in Empordà, where the rains continue unabated and water levels in rivers and streams are rising rapidly. Meteorologists warn: up to half a meter of fresh snow is expected in the mountains above 1,400 meters, and in some areas—even at 1,100 meters. In Montseny and els Ports, snowfall could cause transport chaos. Winds are reaching speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour, further worsening the situation.
Risk of avalanches and flooding
Civil protection authorities keep repeating: now is not the time for walks by the water or extreme sports. The entire Pyrenees region is at risk of avalanches, and even experienced hikers may find themselves trapped by the elements. Water levels in rivers and streams are rising due to rain and sea storms, and hydrologists are warning of possible local flooding. Any carelessness could end in tragedy.
Authorities emphasize: even if it seems the danger has passed, the situation can change in a matter of minutes. Remembering the 2020 disaster when storm Gloria caused devastation across Catalonia, emergency services are acting as swiftly as possible. Still, this may not be enough if citizens ignore the warnings.
Search for the missing
The situation is further complicated by human factors. On Sunday, an avalanche struck the Barranc de Laveja ravine in Val d’Aran (Lleida), claiming one life. Rescue teams are still searching for another missing person. The operation is underway in extremely challenging conditions: snow, strong winds, and the risk of further avalanches leave rescuers with no respite. Every hour of delay could be a matter of life and death.
Authorities admit that Storm Harry is a serious challenge for the region. Despite all the difficulties, emergency services are working at full capacity. Catalonia is holding the line against the elements, and only time will tell if further tragedies can be averted.
