Extreme weather in Extremadura has forced regional authorities to take urgent measures to protect the population. Strong winds, heavy rains, and snowfall have already led to road closures, numerous incidents, and activation of the ES-Alert emergency notification system. For local residents, this is more than another warning — it’s a real safety threat requiring immediate action.
Interim head of government María Guardiola has announced the introduction of special civil protection regimes. Two plans are currently in effect: a special flood prevention plan and a territorial plan to coordinate all emergency services. According to Guardiola, all resources and staff are working around the clock to minimize risks to people and property.
Current situation
The Extremadura emergency service 112 received over three thousand calls and nearly a thousand incidents overnight, with a significant number directly linked to the ongoing severe weather. Several key roads are now fully closed: CC-224 near Puerto de Honduras, CC-242 between Piornal and Garganta, CC-437 at Pico Villuercas, BA-074 from Granja de Torrehermosa to the provincial border, and EX-207 near Arroyo de la Luz.
Authorities are closely monitoring the hydrological and meteorological situation, using data from automated networks and hydrological services. Since 9 a.m., the heightened readiness level of the territorial civil protection plan has been in effect, enabling all emergency operations to be managed centrally from a single coordination center.
Risks and measures
At the same time, heightened alert remains in effect due to the flood risk. Forecasts indicate the possibility of a sharp rise in river water levels, which could lead to flooding and pose a threat to life and property. As a result, forest firefighting brigades have been mobilized in the region to assist with disaster response and provide aid to the population.
Special attention is being paid to areas where the situation is most critical. Authorities do not rule out further evacuations if weather conditions continue to deteriorate. All updates on developments are sent to the operations center, where decisions on further response measures are made.
Evacuations and coordination
Evacuation of residents from certain towns in Badajoz has already begun. Following a decision by the coordination headquarters, the first to be evacuated were residents of Valdebotoa, followed by evacuations in Gévora. Local police and the Civil Guard are on site to maintain order and ensure safety during the process.
Municipal authorities maintain ongoing communication with the regional government, hydrological services, and representatives of the central administration. This coordination enables a prompt response to any changes and swift decision-making should the situation escalate.
Regional challenges
Extremadura is facing one of the most severe weather challenges in recent years. For many residents, this means not only temporary inconveniences but also a real threat to life and property. Authorities urge everyone to remain calm, follow official updates, and avoid leaving their homes unless absolutely necessary.
The situation remains tense, and further developments depend on the weather conditions and the effectiveness of emergency services. In the coming hours, the region faces a difficult period, where coordinated actions will be critical to the safety of thousands of people.
