The Valencian Government’s Emergency Coordination Centre launched the Special Flood Plan in response to orange-level meteorological alerts for rain and storms.
The councils of Alicante, Benidorm, Elche, Santa Pola, Crevillent, Torrevieja, Orihuela, Almoradí, Granja de Rocamora, Cox, Callosa de Segura, Rafal, Albatera, Dolores, Bigastro, San Vicente del Raspeig, Sant Joan d’Alacant, El Campello, and Aigües, as well as the municipalities of Vega Baja: Albatera, Algorfa, Almoradí, Ben There will also be no teaching activities at the Permanent School for Adults, the Official School of Languages, the University of Alicante, Miguel Hernández University (UMH), or the National University of Distance Education (UNED).
CEU Cardenal Herrera University is likewise halting all in-person activities on its Elche campus, including teaching, research, and administrative staff. Theoretical teaching and work activities will take place online. Internships scheduled for that date have been suspended. It is expected that normal operations will return tomorrow, Wednesday, September 10th.
Recommendations for torrential rainfall and floods
The arrival of heavy rains along the Mediterranean coast serves as a reminder of the need of public safety measures. Alicante City Council’s Technical Department of Civil Protection and Emergency Management has issued a set of basic self-protection instructions to help reduce risks in the event of storms, floods, or electricity outages.
Preventive measures for homes and surroundings
Residents are encouraged to inspect their homes for previous damage, clear gutters and roofs, and remove any items that may be washed away by the flood. It is also advisable to safeguard important documents and valuables, keep a first aid kit on hand, and keep dangerous chemicals out of reach of water.
Another important recommendation is to have a torch and alternative sources of information, as storms can create power disruptions. Also, avoid parking vehicles in dry riverbeds or camping along riverbanks or margins.
How to Act During an Emergency
If the alert is activated, Civil Protection suggests that you follow official instructions, avoid spreading rumours, and only use your phone for emergency conversations. It is also recommended that you move your vehicle away from flood-prone locations, avoid ravines, riverbanks, and bridges, and locate the highest elevations in the area ahead of time so that you can seek refuge if necessary.
If you are told to leave your home, turn off the water, electricity and gas, and close and secure the doors and windows.
Driving precautions
Motorists are advised to use their vehicles only when absolutely required. Before travelling, check road conditions with the DGT (Directorate General of Traffic) and use motorways or key highways. You should never cross a ford or a flooded stretch since the force of the water can wash away both automobiles and humans. In the event of poor visibility, the safest option is to pull over on the shoulder of the road, where your position is clearly indicated.
Risks of thunderstorms
When a storm is accompanied by electrical equipment, it is best to seek refuge inside a building with doors and windows closed, or inside a vehicle. It is not recommended to take refuge under trees or in open locations, to stay in water, or to ride bicycles. To avoid power surge damage, unplug electrical appliances.
After an emergency
Once the risk scenario has passed, it is recommended that you inspect your home, check basic services, observe the health and hygiene requirements set by the authorities, and participate in the city’s cleanup effort.
Information and contact
Civil Protection reminds everyone that the single emergency phone number is 112, which is available throughout the Valencian Community. Citizens can also stay updated by visiting the websites emergencias.alicante.es, www.aemet.es, and www.dgtinfo.es.
The council emphasises the importance of preparation and prevention: understanding the hazards and taking self-protection measures not only improves personal safety but also allows emergency services to respond more effectively.
Author: Derek Appleton
Other Articles
No Comment! Be the first one.