The Generalitat has activated a alert for very heavy rainfall in Baix Penedès and used the ES-Alert system to immediately alert mobile phones in the area. The message, sent shortly before 22:00 p.m., warns of heavy downpours that could continue until midnight.
The authorities ask exercise extreme caution, avoid non-essential travel and suspend outdoor activitiesIt is also recommended not to approach rivers, streams, or ravines, and not to go down to basements, garages, or underground areas that could flood.
What has been activated and why
Civil Protection has launched the emergency protocol in response to adverse weather events, which allows direct notifications to be sent to the population through ES-Alert when there is a immediate riskThis procedure makes it easier for the message to reach most mobile phones in the affected area within seconds.
The Servei Meteorològic de Catalunya (Meteocat) has issued a observation notice due to rain intensity with the possibility of exceeding 40 mm in 30 minutesShowers may be accompanied by storm and, in a localized manner, granizoGiven this scenario, the special flood plan was activated. INNUCATED for the coastal and pre-coastal area, including the Baix Penedès.
Anticipated risks and key recommendations
With high intensity rainfall, the risk of localized flooding in low or poorly drained spots, as well as dragging elements due to the force of the water. Civil Protection has issued guidelines to reduce the danger during the incident.
- Avoid trips by car or on foot if they are not essential; if you are already on the road, drive with utmost caution.
- Do not approach rivers, streams and ravines, nor cross them even if they seem calm.
- Do not go down into basements, garages, or underpasses; stay away from flood-prone areas.
- Follow the official channels and the hashtags #AlertaCat and #Inuncat for updated information.
It is advisable to keep your mobile phone with you enough battery and the active volume so as not to miss new alerts, and check drains or elements susceptible to water blockage in homes and businesses.
Evolution of the episode and effects
During the night and early morning, the rain was intense and persistent in sections of the Tarragona coastline. In El Vendrell They were collected 49,3 l/m², with 39 in just 30 minutes, while in Torredembarra 29 l/m² (22 in half an hour) were recorded, according to meteorological stations in the area.
The Generalitat Firefighters attended three warnings in El Vendrell until midnight: two for flooding in homes and another due to water accumulation on public roads. There is no record of any serious widespread impact, but the insistence on maintaining the caution.
As the day progresses, the situation would tend to stabilize, although local showers may occur. It is advisable to remain alert to the official indications in case new announcements are issued.
The combination of a ES-Early Alert, the activation of INUNCAT and the recommendations disseminated have allowed the population of Baix Penedès to prepare for an episode of torrential rain of short duration but high intensity. Following warnings in real time and avoiding risky behavior remains the best way to minimize incidents.
