Authorities in Catalonia have extended the Inuncat alert, warning of severe storms and possible flooding in Tarragona and Terres del Ebre. Updated forecasts point to torrential rain overnight in Camp de Tarragona, continuing into Saturday morning along the southern coast. Emergency services say Penedès and Camp de Tarragona face the highest risk, with rainfall possibly exceeding 90 litres per square metre within three hours.
Imma Solé, operational deputy director of Protección Civil, said storms could be locally intense, especially along the southern coast. In some areas, rainfall could exceed 40 litres in 30 minutes and reach 60 litres in three hours. Residents are urged to avoid flood-prone zones and never cross rivers, streams or flooded roads on foot or by vehicle: moving water can sweep away people and vehicles. Authorities also advise against unnecessary travel and urge people to stay clear of torrents and other low-lying areas. If water enters a building, move to an upper floor. Storms may also bring hail and strong wind gusts, raising the risk of damage and disruption.
On Thursday, heavy rain and hail caused damage across parts of Barcelona province, particularly in Vallès Occidental. Strong winds also caused damage. Firefighters responded to 94 incidents in just over three hours, mainly removing fallen trees and dealing with wind damage to urban infrastructure and flooding. The 112 emergency line received more than a hundred calls. Firefighters also helped around thirty drivers who were stranded in the Trabucador beach area after sea levels rose, assisting them to leave safely.
Inuncat is Catalonia’s special emergency plan for floods. Its status depends on weather warnings for rainfall intensity and accumulation, along with the resulting flood risk. Authorities lift the plan when meteorological warnings end and conditions improve. In a separate episode in October 2026, Protecció Civil deactivated the alert on 20 October after the Servei Meteorològic de Catalunya ended its warnings. The episode generated 239 calls to 112 linked to 176 incidents. Authorities reported no serious river overflows or major damage caused by water flows.
Rainfall measurements from that October episode also show the difference between forecast thresholds and recorded totals. The highest 24-hour accumulations were 69.3 litres per square metre at Ulldeter, 68.6 at Falset and 68.1 at La Llacuna. For half-hour readings, Torredembarra recorded the highest figure at 23.6 litres per square metre. Vila-rodona recorded 20.6, while Nulles recorded 19.3. These measurements were below the more extreme forecast thresholds cited during the alert. Those thresholds can apply locally and do not equate to the final totals recorded at individual stations.
This latest alert comes as Spain continues to face a series of extreme weather events. Earlier this season, official warnings were issued nationwide for dangerous heat and severe storms, adding pressure on emergency services and residents. The Inuncat plan coordinates local authorities, emergency responders and the public to manage flood risks and reduce harm to people and property.
Residents in affected areas are advised to monitor official updates and avoid unnecessary travel. They should stay away from rivers, streams, torrents and flooded roads. The current situation reinforces the need for preparedness and a swift response during periods of intense rainfall.
