Barcelona and much of Catalonia are bracing for severe weather on Wednesday after the Servei Meteorològic de Catalunya (Meteocat) raised its warnings. The agency expects flash floods and hurricane-force winds, while dangerous sea conditions are also forecast. The worst impacts are 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. That much rain can overwhelm drainage systems and trigger sudden flooding, especially in cities and low-lying areas. Meteocat has rated the risk as 'very high' in these zones and urged people to stay alert. Catalonia's Civil Protection authority has activated the Inuncat flood response plan amid forecasts of intense rainfall across much of the region.
Forecasters expect heavy rain and strong thunderstorms, with violent weather also possible. In the Alt Empordà region of Girona, wind gusts could exceed 108 kilometres per hour, potentially damaging infrastructure and putting people at risk. Along the coasts of Alt Empordà and Baix Empordà, waves could top 2.5 metres, threatening boats and raising the risk of coastal flooding. Meteocat expects instability to peak on Wednesday and continue into Thursday night. Strong thunderstorms, heavy downpours and local hail are especially likely in northeastern and central Catalonia, as well as along the central coast.
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. With warnings covering much of the region, transport, outdoor events and daily routines are likely to face disruptions.
This comes just weeks after Catalonia saw record heat, as reported earlier. The swift change from extreme heat to violent storms highlights how unpredictable the region's weather has become in recent years.
For residents and businesses, the immediate concerns are flash floods that 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 take care near rivers and the coast.
Severe weather is becoming more common in Catalonia. More frequent events such as heatwaves and storms are forcing authorities and residents to adapt quickly. Meteocat's current warnings underscore the need to prepare for sudden, disruptive weather changes that affect daily life and public safety.
