Catalonia is facing a day of dangerous weather, with Meteocat warning of torrential rain, strong winds, and hazardous waves. Several areas are at high risk for flooding and storm damage. Authorities are urging people to take precautions.
Barcelona and much of Catalonia are preparing for a day of severe weather after the Servei Meteorològic de Catalunya (Meteocat) raised its warnings for Wednesday. The agency expects flash floods, hurricane-force winds, and dangerous sea conditions, with the worst impacts likely in the morning.
In the Baix Llobregat, Vallès Occidental, Garraf, Alt Penedès, and Baix Penedès regions, rainfall could reach 40 litres per square metre in just half an hour. This amount of rain can overwhelm drainage systems and cause sudden flooding, especially in cities and low-lying areas. Meteocat has rated the risk as 'very high' in these zones and is urging people to stay alert.
Catalonia's Civil Protection authority has activated the Inuncat flood response plan due to forecasts of intense rainfall across much of the region.
Forecasters expect not only heavy rain but also strong thunder and the chance of violent weather. In the Alt Empordà region of Girona, wind gusts could top 108 kilometres per hour, which may damage infrastructure and pose safety risks. Along the coasts of Alt Empordà and Baix Empordà, waves could reach over 2.5 metres, making it dangerous for boats and raising the risk of coastal flooding.
Most of Catalonia is under alert, but Meteocat says the Alt Pirineu, Lleida, and Terres de l'Ebre should avoid the worst of the storm. Still, with warnings covering much of the region, disruptions to transport, outdoor events, and daily routines are likely.
This comes just weeks after Catalonia saw record heat, as reported earlier. The quick shift from extreme heat to violent storms shows how unpredictable the region's weather has become in recent years.
According to Meteocat, the peak of instability is expected on Wednesday and into the night on Thursday, with strong thunderstorms, heavy downpours, and local hail especially likely in northeastern and central Catalonia as well as the central coast.
For residents and businesses, the main concern is practical: flash floods can damage property, disrupt travel, and threaten safety. Strong winds and rough seas also put coastal infrastructure and maritime activity at risk. Emergency services are on alert, and local officials have advised people to avoid unnecessary travel and to be careful near rivers and the coast.
Severe weather is becoming more common in Catalonia. The frequency of events like heatwaves and storms is forcing both authorities and residents to adapt quickly. The current warnings from Meteocat are a reminder that the region needs to be ready for sudden and disruptive changes in weather, with real effects on daily life and public safety.
