Catalonia is set for intense rain and storms on Thursday, with some areas potentially receiving up to 50 litres per square metre. The warning comes after an unusually hot May, when temperatures passed 40C in parts of the region and broke several records, according to Regió7.
Temperatures across Catalonia began to fall on Wednesday, although skies were mostly clear. The exception was the western Pyrenees, where maximum temperatures rose. Winds were light, but they could strengthen in Empordà and the southern third of the region, with very strong gusts possible in exposed parts of Tarragona.
Rain and storm warnings
The Servei Meteorològic de Catalunya, Meteocat, has activated a danger warning for intense rain on Thursday. It covers inland Catalonia and Girona, including Bages, Anoia, Lluçanès, Berguedà, Osona, Moianès, Vallès Occidental, Vallès Oriental, Selva, Gironès, Pla de l’Estany, Garrotxa and Ripollès. More Catalonia news
In these areas, rainfall could exceed 20 litres per square metre in 30 minutes. The showers may also bring thunderstorms and, locally, hail. The AEMET has also issued a yellow warning for strong waves along the Empordà and Girona coasts, where north and north-easterly winds of 50 to 60 km/h could generate waves of up to three metres.
Why the weather is changing
The unstable spell is linked to large cumulonimbus clouds moving over Catalonia. These storm clouds can bring strong winds, heavy rain, hail, lightning and thunder. The most unstable conditions are expected in inland Barcelona and Girona, as well as the province of Castelló. By Friday, the rain could extend to Valencia and Alicante.
People in affected areas should follow updates from Meteocat and AEMET and be ready for sudden changes in conditions and possible disruption. Official forecasts and warnings are available from Meteocat and AEMET.
