Torrential rain and flood risk forecast for eastern Spain

Forecasters are warning of torrential rain and the risk of significant flooding across eastern Spain in the coming days, as a weather pattern known as a Dana brings cold upper-level air over the warm, humid surface conditions of the Mediterranean Sea.

The combination is expected to fuel slow-moving, intense thunderstorms near Spain's eastern coastline. According to weather models, rainfall totals could exceed 100mm across the wider region on Friday, with some localized areas potentially seeing between 200mm and 300mm.

Cities including Valencia and Castelló de la Plana are considered among the areas most at risk. Valencia, in particular, has experienced several damaging flood events in recent years, making local authorities especially cautious about this latest forecast.

In response to the warnings, officials in Catalonia have placed three towns under lockdown measures, while authorities in Valencia have closed schools affecting nearly half a million children as a precaution. The Dana weather pattern, which typically occurs in autumn, has previously been linked to severe and sometimes fatal flooding events in the region.

Forecasters note that the exact distribution of the heaviest rainfall remains uncertain, given the slow-moving nature of these storm systems, which can lead to prolonged downpours concentrated over relatively small areas. Authorities are urging residents in at-risk zones to follow official guidance and avoid unnecessary travel while the warnings remain in effect.