Catalonia faces intense storms with heavy rain, hail, and strong winds. Civil Protection has activated the Inuncat pre-alert. Emergency crews are already responding to damage in several areas.
Severe storms swept across parts of Catalonia on Thursday, prompting Civil Protection of the Generalitat to activate the Inuncat pre-alert. The measure, in effect through Saturday, comes as local authorities brace for further episodes of violent weather, including heavy rain, hail, and wind gusts exceeding 90 km/h. The first significant impacts were reported in the province of Barcelona, with Vallès Occidental among the hardest hit.
Between 16:00 and 17:00, firefighters received around 50 emergency calls related to the sudden downpour. Most incidents involved fallen trees, damaged urban furniture, and minor flooding. The combination of intense rainfall and hail created hazardous conditions on roads and in public spaces, forcing emergency teams to intervene quickly to clear debris and restore safety.
The Catalan Meteorological Service issued a violent weather warning for the afternoon, specifically targeting the comarcas of Vallès Occidental, Vallès Oriental, Baix Llobregat, Anoia, Alt Penedès, Bages, and Lluçanès. In these areas, wind gusts surpassed 90 km/h, while hail and flash flooding added to the disruption. The effects were also felt in the Tarragonès region, where red flags were raised on most beaches due to dangerous sea conditions.
Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel during storm periods. The rapid escalation of incidents has put local emergency services under pressure, echoing the challenges faced during other recent natural emergencies in Spain. For example, large-scale evacuations and emergency responses were required during the recent wildfire crisis in Castellón, as detailed in this report on mass evacuations and firefighting efforts.
Storm-related risks are a recurring concern in Catalonia, especially during transitional seasons when weather patterns can shift abruptly. The Inuncat plan is designed to coordinate rapid response and minimize damage, with local authorities, firefighters, and meteorological experts working closely together. Residents are advised to monitor official updates and follow safety recommendations, particularly in areas prone to flooding or wind damage. The current episode highlights the importance of preparedness and swift action as climate variability continues to challenge regional infrastructure and emergency planning.
