SPAIN: On Thursday, July 6, a hailstorm caused heavy flooding in the streets of Vitoria-Gasteiz, Lava, and nearby villages in Spain. There have been reports of a few injuries, as well as damage to cars, buildings, and trees. Additionally, the region of Zaragoza experienced hail and torrential rain, leading to flash floods and disruptions.
In Vitoria-Gasteiz and Lava, emergency rescue teams were deployed to assist affected individuals as a result of the intense downpour, which reached up to 54.2 liters of rain per square meter in some areas.
Several roadways, including a ring road, were flooded, necessitating the involvement of firefighters and dive teams to rescue motorists trapped in their vehicles.
Despite the heavy rain, no accidents or injuries were reported. However, Zaragoza faced challenges with tram and bus services, and the Third Ring Road near Barranco de la Muerte witnessed the most significant incident. People became stranded in cars and clung to trees, requiring rescue operations.
Emergency personnel utilized ropes and automatic ladders to rescue individuals from cars in the Los Enlaces region, with public aid being provided. Ecociudad service teams also participated in the rescue efforts, providing essential supplies and sanitation facilities.
Power outages caused traffic lights to malfunction, leading to the involvement of local police to manage the situation. Drainage and sewage systems were clogged with leaves, resulting in flooding in various areas.
The situation was exacerbated by the rain and gusts of wind. Storm damage in Cuarte de Huerva and Burgo del Ebro forced the evacuation of eight individuals, impacting homes, buildings, and basements.
The Citizen Security and Traffic Group responded to information from the Guardia Civil regarding the closure of the A23 in Teruel. In Paniza, large hailstones destroyed fruit, causing a complete loss of the vineyard crop and significant financial losses for farmers.
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